Corpus Christi TX Commercial Roofing: Self-Adhesive Vs Torch Down Modified Bitumen

Fire is highly dangerous because it can set an entire roof or property ablaze without proper training. On the other hand, adhesives can only do so much to stick on a surface. So, if you're using this roofing material in your Corpus Christi TX property, should you choose self-adhesive or torch down modified bitumen? Both installation procedures have their respective pros and cons.

Self-adhesive procedures are the favorite of DIY or in-house property managers. They require the least equipment possible. Only a roller, adhesive application towel, caulk gun, and a few other things are needed. But, will it stick? Certainteed has a great answer to this question below.

Self-Adhesive Modified Bitumen Installation Basics

Every professional roofer is familiar with the general tools needed to complete a low-slope roof installation. Self-adhered roofing does require a few specialized, yet easy-to-acquire tools:

• A weighted roller for pressing the membrane into place
• Suitable trowel for applying adhesive to flashing details (if not using a hot air welder)
• Caulk gun for applying any adhesives
• Seam probing tool to check for small voids

Plus, if priming:

• Long-handled (standing) roller with 1/8"-1/4" nap for applying primer (1/8" nap for smooth surfaces, 1/4" nap for more porous surfaces)

In cold weather:

• Replace the trowel with a hot air welder (if manufacturers’ application instructions call for it)

As a rule of thumb, for residential applications, self-adhered roofing should only be applied on plywood decks that are at least 1/2” thick and OSB (oriented strand board) decks at least 7/16” thick, each with a minimum slope of 1/4”.  It is recommended that an anchor sheet be mechanically attached to the wood deck prior to self-adhering a ply or cap layer. (Read More)

Asphalt is made from a mixture of oil, crushed rock, cement, and other durable materials. With the right application of heat through a torch, the material can melt and provide a barrier similar to the durability of road-worthy asphalt pavements. However, any DIY or in-house team can give up on going through with the steps to use it. Because it uses an open-flame, it requires special permissions that professional Corpus Christi TX modified bitumen roofers have.

If you're curious about torch down modified bitumen's advantages and shortcomings, modified bitumen manufacturer IKO has a great and detailed article you can go through.

The Advantages of Torch Down Modified Bitumen Roofs

There are many advantages to torch down roofing. The first job of any roof system is to keep water out of the building/structure, and torch down roofing has excellent water-resistant properties. Provided the membrane and insulation are installed according to manufacturer application instructions, the flat surface of a torch down roof prevents water from collecting and allows it to drain off.

Torch down roll roofing is designed for all climates, expanding under heat and contracting under cold conditions without melting or cracking as other materials might. It’s this ability that gives torch down roofs their long lifespan.

Climates with frequent snow are a challenge for flat roofs because snow stays on the roof until it melts. Water-resistant torch down roofing is an excellent choice in snowy environments. (Continued)

While modified bitumen's installation affects its lifespan and performance over time, it pays to know about long can it last. It's one of the most affordable commercial roofing systems in the market. However, it's definitely possible better options are available to you during the time you plan to replace your roofing materials.

Whether you plan to use self-adhesive or torch down modified bitumen procedures, the material has one great downside in its lifespan. McGarry and Madsen has a great post about the lifespan of modified bitumen roofs below.

Torch Down Modified Bitumen Roof Life Expectancy

The expected lifespan of a modified bitumen roof, often called a “modified bit” roof, is 10 to 15 years in Florida. The material is used for roofs with a low slope or nearly flat. It is a roll roofing that is applied with liquid mastic and has a surface finish of small rock granules similar to a 3-tab shingle roof. As the material approaches the end of its lifespan, there is granule loss and cracking of the surface as shown in the photo above.

  The 10 to 15 year average lifespan estimate is based on “average” conditions. Many factors contribute to a longer or shorter life of the roof; so a particular modified bit roof’s life can vary—sometimes significantly—from the average. Here’s a list of conditions that affect roof longevity: (Continued)

Despite this huge disadvantage, many Corpus Christi TX properties still use modified bitumen roofs. It is quick and fast to install, guarantees effective protection similar to single-ply and concrete roofs, and requires minimal installation. To achieve all these results, you'll need a roofing company with the knowledge and experience to deliver the results you need. If you have yet to find one, you can count on Galvan Builders for the best torch down modified bitumen roofing services. Call us today!

Learn More Here: Corpus Christi TX Commercial Roofing: Self-Adhesive Vs Torch Down Modified Bitumen

Galvan Builders Construction Company
4938 Williams Drive,
Corpus Christi TX 78411
361-857-4341
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