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Are you looking for a waterproof or a fire-resistant seal for your home? Have you heard about a torch down roof but are not sure whether it’s the right option for your home or commercial building?
Before starting a roofing project, it’s essential to understand the costs associated with it. In this article, we will explore what a torch-down roof is, the factors affecting its price, and the key components of the cost of these types of roofs.
Let’s get started!
What Is Torch Down Roofing?
Before going into the costs of a torch-down roof, let’s go over what this type of roof is and whether it is the right one for you.
Torch-down roofing is a type of modified bitumen roofing system that is popular among homeowners and commercial property owners, especially those with flat roofs.
It consists of multiple layers of non-woven polyester mat, including a base sheet and a cap sheet, which are typically made of asphalt and reinforced with fiberglass. After layering these sheets onto the roof, it is then heated up with a blowtorch to create a watertight seal.
What Are the Advantages of a Torch Down Roof?
There are several advantages of installing a torch-down roof, some of which include the following:
- Torch-down roofing is inexpensive.
- It is easy and quick to install.
- A torch-down roof is waterproof and fire-resistant.
- These types of roofs are durable and can last up to 20 years.
- Torch-down roofs are easy to repair.
What Are the Drawbacks of a Torch Down Roof?
A modified bitumen roofing system has several drawbacks, including the following:
- It is only suitable for a building or house with a flat roof.
- A modified bitumen roofing system is a fire hazard and requires skilled professionals to install it.
- It is vulnerable to standing water.
- The sheets can break or tear due to sharp objects.
What Are the Factors Affecting the Installation Costs of Torch Down Roofing?
There are several factors that affect the cost of torch-down roofing, some of which include the following:
The Size and Complexity of the Roof
The size and shape of your roof directly impact the materials and labor required for installation. Large roofs with intricate angles or protrusions may incur higher costs due to increased labor and material needs.
If your roof has chimneys, multiple vents, and skylights, be prepared to pay a higher price for the job.
The Type and Quality of Roofing Materials
Another major factor that affects the cost of a torch-down roof is the type and quality of the materials used.
Depending on the type of roof materials used, it can cost you between $100 and $200 per roll. The factors that affect the price include color, the brand, the number of layers, and durability.
It’s best to speak to an experienced local torch down roofing contractor to determine which roofing material best suits your home’s needs.
Although a high-quality material may come at a premium price, it does offer better durability and longevity, making them a wise investment in the long run.
On the other hand, if you have a tight budget, there are many different materials and products available that you can choose from.
The Cost of Labor and Expertise
A successful torch-down roof installation requires hiring a professional roofing contractor with extensive experience handling such jobs.
Installing a torch-down roof is a dangerous job, and you need skilled professionals who can install the roofing without causing any damage to the existing structure.
The roofing cost can vary between $160 and 400 per square foot, depending on many different factors, including the nature of the project, the experience of the contractor, and the area of the roofing job.
The Removal of the Old Roof Can Drive the Installation Cost
If the task requires the roofing professional to remove and dispose of the existing roof, it can drive up the cost of the project.
Depending on the contractor, expect to pay between $90 and $100 per square foot (up to $2,500 on average for the entire roof).
Getting a Roof Replacement Permit
You may need a roof replacement permit which can further drive up the costs of torch-down roofing. You should allocate between $150 and $500 when doing the costing for this project.
Additional Features and Customization Can Increase the Roof Cost
The cost of a torch-down roof will increase if you’re looking for additional features like roofing accessories or flashing.
You should determine the budget for your roofing project and then consider your specific needs before looking for an experienced contractor.
Is There a Difference Between a Two and a Three-layer Torch Down Roof Costs?
Although both roofing systems have a base layer and a smooth layer, the three-layer one has an additional granular sheet. This makes it more fire-resistant and durable, not to mention that it lasts up to 30% longer.
However, the three-layer torch-down roofing is significantly more expensive. You can expect to spend between $170 and $550 per square foot on average, depending on the materials you choose and other factors.
On the other hand, a two-layer torch-down roofing is much cheaper and costs around $110 to $160 per square foot.
Estimating the Torch Down Roofing Costs
We’ve gone over the average cost of materials, permits, and labor. It should cost you between $350 and $700 per square foot, making it easier to do your calculations before talking to roofing contractors.
To calculate the torch-down roofing cost, you need to multiply the square footage of your roof by the price per square foot to estimate the material expenses.
Once you’re done calculating the material expense, make sure to add the labor cost while factoring in the complexity of the project. This will help you arrive at a realistic roofing cost estimate.
Wrapping It Up
Investing in skilled labor who have previously installed many torch-down roofing systems ensures a quality installation. If you decide to choose the cheapest contractor for the task, the project cost might be lower, but you may incur a lot of expenses in the long run if they fail to do the job correctly.
If you are looking for a local torch-down roofing contractor to assist you with your project, feel free to contact us. Our experienced team is ready to provide quality service and competitive prices while ensuring a smooth torch-down roof installation.
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