How to Install Torch Down | Torch Down Roofing Guide

Summary

In this video, the presenter demonstrates how to install Polyglass torch down roofing, focusing on the proper technique for the field of the roof and seams. Safety measures like using a fire extinguisher and working cautiously are emphasized. The process includes burning the middle of the roll, then addressing the seams using a two-step method for optimal results. Key details such as cutting the ends at a 45-degree angle for a good bond and optionally applying granules for aesthetics are explained. The video is tailored for southern California building codes.

Takeaways

• 🔥 Always install the entire roofing system properly, including the torch down cap, base layers, and flashings, following the manufacturer's recommendations.
• 🏭 Prefer using Polyglass products for base layer, mid-ply, and torch cap sheet due to their quality and compatibility.
• 🧯 Work safely when torching, keeping a fire extinguisher close by at all times.
• 💥 Properly burn the back of the roll for good adhesion and to ensure a nice bleed-out of all seams.
• 🛠️ Install roofing in a two-step method: first burn the middle of the roll, then go back and do the seams for optimal results.
• 📏 Lay out the roll of roofing, leaving space to demonstrate how to terminate and start a new roll, as full rolls are rarely used for entire roofs.
• 🌞 Be cautious of exposed areas to the sun, as the roofing material is not meant to be left exposed.
• 🔧 Use a trowel to push down the heated material and achieve a quarter to half-inch bleed-out for a perfect seam.
• ✂️ Cut the ends of the roll at a 45-degree angle to prevent water seepage and ensure a good bond when a new roll is applied.
• 🌡️ Avoid overheating the roofing material to prevent damage and premature failure; watch for signs of overheating such as the top becoming brown.
• 🎨 Granulating the seams is an optional aesthetic detail and not a waterproofing requirement, but it can help make the roof look seamless.

Q & A

What type of roofing material is being used in the video?

The roofing material used in the video is Polyglass torch down roofing, including the base layer, mid-ply, and torch cap sheet.

Why is it important to install the entire roofing system properly?

Installing the entire roofing system properly, including the base layers and flashings, ensures durability and adherence to manufacturer recommendations, which is essential for preventing leaks and ensuring the roof’s longevity.

What safety precautions are mentioned for torching the roof?

The video emphasizes working safely while torching by having a fire extinguisher nearby and avoiding walking backwards on the roof to prevent accidental falls.

What is the two-step method described for installing the torch down roofing?

The two-step method involves first torching the middle of the roll and then going back to focus on the seams, ensuring a proper bleed-out for a solid seam, which is more critical than the field of the roof.

Why do they prefer to burn and kick the roll forward rather than using a J hook to pull the roll backward?

They prefer burning and kicking the roll forward for safety reasons, as it allows them to always walk forward and see ahead, reducing the risk of stepping off the edge of the roof.

What is the significance of cutting the ends of the roll at a 45-degree angle?

Cutting the ends of the roll at a 45-degree angle prevents double-layered areas that could allow water to seep through, ensuring a good bond at vulnerable corners.

How do you prep the surface for an end lap in torch down roofing?

To prep an end lap, you need to heat the surface to remove granules from the existing roll, ensuring that the new roll can bond smoothly to the base layer for a tight finish.

What is the purpose of achieving a quarter to half-inch bleed-out when torching the seams?

A quarter to half-inch bleed-out ensures that the seam is properly sealed, preventing water penetration and creating a secure joint between roofing materials.

What is the optional detail of granulating seams, and why might someone choose to do it?

Granulating the seams is an aesthetic option where additional granules are spread on the seams to make the roof look seamless. It does not improve waterproofing but can enhance the roof's appearance.

Why is the video focused on installing the field of the roof rather than penetrations or flashings?

The video focuses on the field of the roof to demonstrate the basic process of installing a roll of roofing. More complex details like penetrations and flashings are not covered in this particular video.

Outlines

00:00

🔥 Installing Torch Down Roofing

The paragraph introduces the process of installing Polyglass torch down roofing. It emphasizes the importance of following the manufacturer's recommendations for the entire roofing system, including base layers, mid-ply, and torch cap sheets. Safety precautions are highlighted, such as having a fire extinguisher nearby when torching. The video focuses on the field of the roof, not including details like penetrations or flashings. The two-step method of installation is discussed, involving burning the middle of the roll first and then the seams. The importance of proper adhesion and bleed-out is mentioned, along with the technique of 'burn and kick' for safety reasons. The paragraph concludes with instructions on how to prepare the field for the next roll and the importance of cutting the end at a 45-degree angle for proper bonding.

05:06

🛠️ Seam Preparation and End Lap Technique

This paragraph details the process of preparing and sealing seams in torch down roofing. It describes achieving the desired bleed-out by heating the seams and pressing them down with a trowel. The concept of end laps is introduced, explaining the need for a 6-inch overlap between rolls and the importance of cutting the end at a 45-degree angle to prevent water seepage. Special precautions for end laps are highlighted, such as heating the existing roll to remove granules before adhering a new roll. The paragraph also discusses the optional detail of granulating the seams for aesthetic purposes, using granules similar to those on the roofing membrane. The process of applying granules and the decision between granulated and un-granulated seams for aesthetics are also covered.

10:24

📹 Conclusion and Engagement

The final paragraph wraps up the video by inviting viewers to share their opinions on whether to granulate seams or not. It encourages viewers to comment on their preferences and experiences with torch down roofing. The video creators express their willingness to answer questions and provide more information if needed. They also remind viewers of their location in southern California and the adherence to local building codes and standards. The paragraph ends with a call to action for viewers to like, subscribe, and look forward to the next video.

Keywords

💡Torch Down Roofing

Torch down roofing is a type of roofing system where a heat-sensitive adhesive on the back of the roofing material is activated using a torch to create a bond. This method is crucial in the video as it's the primary focus of the installation process being demonstrated. The script mentions installing 'a roll of Polyglass torch down roofing' and emphasizes the importance of proper burning to ensure good adhesion.

💡Polyglass

Polyglass is a brand mentioned in the script that specializes in roofing materials. The video recommends using Polyglass products for the base layer, mid-ply, and torch cap sheet, indicating a preference for their quality in the roofing process. This highlights the brand's significance in achieving a reliable roofing system.

💡Base Layers

Base layers are the foundational components of a roofing system, designed to provide a stable surface for additional layers. The script stresses the importance of installing base layers properly, following the manufacturer's recommendations, to ensure the integrity of the torch down roofing system.

💡Flashings

Flashings are parts of a roofing system used to prevent water from entering the structure at certain angles or joints. Although not the main focus of the video, flashings are mentioned as an important aspect of a complete roofing system, alongside the torch down cap and base layers.

💡Adhesion

Adhesion in the context of roofing refers to the bond created between layers of roofing material. The video script discusses the need for 'good adhesion' by properly burning the back of the roll, which is essential for the durability and water resistance of the torch down roofing.

💡Seams

Seams are the points where two pieces of roofing material meet. The video emphasizes the importance of properly burning and sealing seams to prevent water leakage. It introduces a two-step method for installing seams, highlighting their critical role in the roofing process.

💡Bleed-Out

Bleed-out refers to the visible evidence of proper adhesion where the melted adhesive 'bleeds' out at the seam. The script specifies aiming for a 'quarter to half-inch of bleed-out' as an indicator of a successful seam, which is a key visual cue for quality control in torch down roofing.

💡End Lap

An end lap is created when one roll of roofing material ends and another begins. The video describes the process of preparing and adhering the end lap, including the importance of cutting at a 45-degree angle and heating to remove granules for proper bonding.

💡Side Lap

A side lap occurs where the side edges of two rolls of roofing material overlap. The script mentions the need for a 3-inch overlap and the process of burning and adhering the side lap, which is essential for a watertight seal.

💡Granules

Granules are the small, rough particles on the surface of roofing materials that provide texture and help protect the roof from UV rays. The video discusses the process of embedding granules into the asphalt for a better bond and the optional step of granulating seams for aesthetic purposes.

💡Safety Precautions

Safety precautions are essential when working with torches and roofing materials. The script advises having a fire extinguisher nearby and emphasizes the importance of walking forward on the roof to avoid accidents, highlighting safety as a priority during the installation process.

Highlights

Introduction to installing Polyglass torch down roofing.

Importance of following manufacturer recommendations for base layers, flashings, and the torch cap sheet.

Reminder to prioritize safety by keeping a fire extinguisher close while torching.

Explanation of the two-step method for installing roofing: burning the middle of the roll first, then handling the seams for better results.

Details on aligning and rolling out the roofing material, highlighting the significance of seams in roofing installation.

Safety tip: Always walk forward while working on a roof to avoid stepping off the edge.

Demonstration of properly torching the roofing roll by burning the middle while keeping a safe distance from the seams.

Warning about the risks of overheating the roofing material, which can lead to premature failure.

Explanation of cutting the roofing roll at a 45-degree angle to ensure proper bonding and prevent water infiltration.

Instructions on achieving a proper quarter-inch bleed-out for seams, ensuring strong adhesion.

Overview of handling an end lap when one roofing roll ends and another begins, emphasizing the need for a 6-inch overlap.

Explanation of how to prepare the roofing field for bonding by removing granules with heat.

Demonstration of using a trowel as a guide to heat specific areas without damaging the material.

Optional technique of granulating seams for aesthetic purposes, offering a comparison between granulated and non-granulated seams.

Final thoughts on the aesthetic versus functional aspects of granulated seams, with an invitation for viewer feedback.

Transcripts

In this video, I want to show you how to install

the rolls of roofing on a torch down roof.

Let's get into it.

In this video, we're gonna be installing a roll of Polyglass torch down roofing.

What I always recommend is make sure that you install the entire system properly.

So not only the torch down cap, but your base layers, your flashings,

follow the manufacturer recommendations.

We like working with Polyglass and we use their base layer, their mid-ply,

as well as their torch cap sheet.

Anytime that you are torching, please make sure to work safely,

have a fire extinguisher close by.

In the field of the torch down, it's important to properly burn the back of the roll

to get good adhesion, as well as getting a nice bleed-out of all your seams.

Let's get into it.

Alright, we're ready to get the field installed.

So in this video, I wanna show you essentially how to install just a simple roll of roofing.

We're not gonna be doing penetrations or any details, flashings or things like that.

Just how to install the middle of the roof, what we call the field of the roof.

The way we install it is a two-step method.

We first burn the middle of the roll, then we go back and do the seams.

You can do it both ways.

However, we found that we get the best results for our seams if we do it in a two-step method,

that way we can really focus on the seams and getting a nice bleed-out,

as the middle of the roof is really not as critical as the seams.

The first thing we do is we lay out our roll of roofing.

Now, for this example, I don't wanna go all the way because I do wanna show you how it

is to terminate and start a new roll of roofing 'cause on the field on regular-sized roofs,

you're gonna have that quite a bit.

You're not gonna have your rolls go all the way from one side of the roof to the other.

So we're gonna assume that the roll ends here

and then we're gonna continue another lap here.

Torch down rolls have a side lap, which is this right here.

These rolls have 3 inches along the length of the roll that's made to burn

and adhere one to the other.

This really allows us to get a good, solid joint when we're burning here.

Now keep in mind, this roof is made for a demo so

generally we wouldn't have areas like this.

You don't wanna have this exposed to the sun.

Really in this video, we're showing you two things: install the field of the roof,

and how to do your joints.

So we just wanna make sure that the edges are aligned, start rolling it back,

then we're gonna start torching.

Now, one thing that we'd like to do a little bit differently than how some

other people do it and how some manufacturers suggest is, we like to burn and kick the roll

out in front of us, as opposed to standing on the backside

and using a J hook to pull that back.

The reason is for safety purposes.

We never like to walk backwards on a roof.

You always wanna walk forward and see what's ahead of you

because it's very easy to step off the edge if you're not looking.

So we'll actually stand on the field itself on the roll, burn it and kick it out.

When we're burning it, we wanna get this film burnt and melted.

Now we're staying back 6 inches from each side as these seams we're gonna do separately.

And really, you wanna have the majority of the flame here

and 30% of the flame on the base itself.

When you're installing your field, if you ever see this top become brown from

heating up the bottom side, that means you've overheated it and you don't want to do that.

You can burn through the membrane and also if you heat it up too much, you can permanently

damage it, which will cause premature failure.

So we've burned our field down and the next thing we wanna do is start burning the seam.

Now before we do that, these ends right here,

what we wanna do is cut it at a 45-degree angle.

And what that's gonna allow us to do is,

when we have the new roll that's coming on top of it,

it's gonna allow for a good bond right here.

If we were not to cut this off, we would have a double layered system right here which would

essentially allow water to possibly seep in through here.

By cutting this at a 45-degree angle

will allow us to get a good bond right here at this vulnerable corner.

Now, as this is heated up, he's pushing it down with the trowel and he is

achieving that quarter to half-inch of bleed-out that we're looking for.

So this is a perfect looking seam right here.

So we've got this first area done.

As I mentioned, we cut this short to simulate an end lap.

So end lap occurs when you have one roll ending and another roll starting.

You wanna have 6 inches of overlap between the new roll and the old roll.

Keep in mind, this corner here should always be cut at a 45-degree angle,

and what that's gonna allow us to do is this new roll will bond to this base

and still have a 3-inch overlap.

So this is about 3 inches right here

and our new roll is gonna extend about 3 inches past this.

Now at this end lap here, we have some special precautions that we have to take because

the field is not prepped, these side laps have this overlap area where it has a film that

burns off, the end laps do not have that.

So in order to prep this for a proper bonding, we're gonna heat this up to remove the granules,

then adhere the new roll onto the existing.

The way we wanna do it is, lay this over and using our trowel here

we're gonna make a light mark across the entire thing.

That way we have a light indentation.

You don't wanna go too deep.

You don't wanna cut into the material, but you have that guide for us.

Now we're able to heat it up and embed the granules.

So you can see, what we did here was embed all those granules into the asphalt.

That way, when we flop this over, we're not burning this new material onto granules,

which is not gonna bond as well as it is right now.

Right now, when we have all those granules gone,

we're gonna have a real smooth and tight clean finish.

You can see what Ronal was doing before, he was using his trowel as a guide not to overheat

this area of the roof, as opposed to just keeping the heat on the left side where we

wanna get rid of those granules.

So, now we're ready to flop this over, burn this, and get a nice tight seal on both the

end lap and the side lap here.

Alright, now we have our end lap done.

You can see we've got a quarter-inch bleed-out all the way across,

which is exactly what we're looking for.

We have our last side lap to do here.

I'm gonna show you one last detail that's really, in our opinion, an optional detail,

and that's to granulate the seams.

You can buy these at any roofing supply.

They're essentially the same granules that are on top of your roofing membrane.

In talking to our roofing manufacturer and our manufacturer representative, this is really

an aesthetic option as opposed to a water-proofing requirement.

So, really, if you wanna make your roof look seamless, you can install these.

The nice thing about letting the bleed outs stay, is that you can see the bleed out, and

the proper bleed out that you're supposed to have.

So, I'm gonna show you how to apply this.

Really, as someone's doing the seams, one person needs to go behind them

and spread the granules out.

It's not rocket science, you just throw them on there,

and they'll stick on top of that hot asphalt.

So, we have an excess of granules here.

That's always gonna happen when you're granulating your seams.

Once this roof is cooled down and the asphalt has hardened,

you can brush away or blow off the excess granules.

So, as you can see, this is what a granulated seam looks like,

and this is what an un-granulated seam looks like.

And it really, in our opinion, talking to all our manufacture reps, both of them will

perform the same, it's just a matter of aesthetics.

You can see which one you like better.

Let us know below in the comments.

We'd love to hear if you guys granulate your seams or don't.

We'll see you in the next one.

Guys, thanks for watching.

We have a lot of other videos on this channel about torch down roofing.

If we're missing anything, please comment below, we'd love to explain.

Keep in mind, we are in southern California, so we're building to our building codes and

standards here in California.

If there's anything that you like to do different,

let us know below, we'd love to hear from you.

Give us a like, subscribe and we'll see you in the next one.