Torch down roofing is an affordable roofing option for flat roofs, typically averaging $3.00–$7.00 per square foot. The surface of torch down roofing is durable and resistant to water or other types of weather. Its two- to three-layer design makes it easy for professional roofers to install quickly and efficiently.* 

Most homeowners don’t think about replacing their roofs until there’s an issue. While some roofing styles are cost-prohibitive, torch down roofing is an affordable option for flat-roof homes. Here’s everything you need to know.  

*Via Angi, Roofing Cost Calculator, and Home Guide

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What Are Major Torch Down Roofing Cost Factors?

The total project cost of a new torch-down roof depends on the number of layers, roof size, and roofing material.  

Here’s a closer look at how these factors ultimately impact your new roof cost. 

• Number of roof layers: Homeowners can install a 2- or 3-layer torch down the roof. Installing fewer layers can reduce costs, but it can also shorten the roof’s life span.
• Roof coverage size: The roof’s size will significantly impact the total project expense. Larger and sloped roofs require more material to install. 
• Roofing material quality: Typically, there are two types of roofing material to choose from with torch-down roofing: SBS and APP-modified bitumen. The style of bitumen roofing changes the project price significantly. 

Number of Roof Layers

When installing a torch down roof, you’ll have the option to apply two layers or three layers of torch down. Both choices offer protection against the elements, but the price tags vary based on the amount of materials needed. 

For example, a two-layer torch down roof is more affordable but only has an expected life span of 15 years. A three-layer torch down roof is slightly more expensive, but has an expected life span of 20–25 years. 

Cost by Roof Layers

The following table compares the average cost and life span of two-layer versus three-layer torch down roofing.*

*Via Home Guide

Roof Size

One big pricing factor when replacing your existing roof with a torch down roof is the total square footage. Smaller roofs require fewer materials and labor hours, so they tend to be more affordable. 

Cost by Roof Size

Below is a closer look at the average cost of roofs ranging from 1,000 square feet to 2,500 square feet.

Material Quality

When sourcing materials for a torch down roof system, you’ll need to decide which style of modified bitumen you want used as the main roofing membrane. There are two popular choices: SBS modified bitumen and APP. Each material has specific benefits and characteristics. 

SBS modified bitumen has a rubberized appearance installed in two layers: a base sheet and a granulated cap sheet. Together the sheets form a solid finished product that’s typically more flexible than APP. 

Below are a few benefits of a multi-layer SBS torch down roof:

• Energy-efficient
• Impact resistant
• Withstands extreme temperatures

Cost by Roofing Material Quality

Generally, SBS-modified bitumen is more cost-effective than APP-modified bitumen. The table below shows a price comparison between the two types of roofing material.*

*Via Solvista Roofing

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What Are Additional Torch Down Roofing Cost Factors?

Explore additional cost factors of torch down roofing in the dropdown sections below:

Labor

There isn’t much variance in labor pricing between competitors in a region, but local demand for torch down roofing causes the price to fluctuate. The average cost to install torch down roofing is about $350 per 100 square foot in areas with high demand. Cities with low demand for torch down roofing have higher rates, around $600 per 100 square feet.

Current Roof Condition/Replacement

Cost depends on whether you’re replacing your entire roof or just fixing a portion. A complete redo can cost as much as 10 times the amount of a simple repair.

Extra Materials

Material cost estimates from roofing contractors should include all the basics. However, you can opt for add-ons, including:

• Additional insulation
• Custom roof colors
• Protectants from UV rays and fires

Permits

The type of permits needed varies depending on the municipality. Most permits will range from $100 to $1,000.

Warranty

Most professional roofing contractors offer a warranty on their work that costs between $500 and $2,000. Since damages to your roof can happen at any time, purchasing a warranty is a good idea.

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Should You DIY vs. Professional Torch Down Roofing?

Consider your options before deciding to go the do-it-yourself (DIY) route, including the time, tools, and risk DIY torch down roof installation requires. Plus, incorrectly installing components can result in water damage and costly roof repairs. 

Working with a team of roofing professionals can help mitigate challenges and ensure that roof installation is successful.

DIY Torch Down Roofing

If you feel comfortable working on your roof, it might be worth completing the project yourself since labor costs account for about 60% of total installation cost. However, the other 40% can still be significant, and DIY projects come with their own hidden costs. 

Here are some DIY-related expenses you should consider:

Do You Have the Equipment?

Purchasing the torch down roofing material for your project isn’t the only expense. You’ll also need specialized tools. To install torch down roofing, you’ll need an open-flame propane torch.

Many professionals charge slightly more when a project requires a torch due to the additional risk of injury. If you don’t use a torch correctly, you risk accidentally burning yourself or causing damage to the house. 

How Will You Transport the Material?

While many local hardware stores carry the modified bitumen used in torch down roofing, consider how you will transport the material. For instance, Home Depot offers a quality APP-modified bitumen product for $109 that’s 33 feet long and weighs around 83 pounds.

Without a large truck, it’s nearly impossible to transport those unwieldy materials. Home improvement stores, such as Home Depot, have rental trucks at a cost. According to Home Depot’s website, a full-day truck rental costs about $129. 

Professional Torch Down Roofing

Working with a professional roofing company may be an easier way of getting an old roof replaced. While it’s likely to be costlier than DIY, there are several benefits of working with experienced roofers, including:

• Faster installation times
• Lower risk of house damage
• Professional handling of permit requirements
• Warranties on all work completed

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How To Save on Torch Down Roofing

Since the potential cost of installing a torch down roof ranges up to $20,000, understanding how to save money on the project is crucial. Here are a few cost-saving tips to try:

• Choose a two-layer torch down roof instead of three-layer
• Install your roof during the slow season, when professionals are less busy
• Opt for a lower-quality modified bitumen material
• Remove the existing roof yourself
• Request quotes from multiple roofing companies

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How To Hire a Professional Roofer?

Many people turn to expert contractors to assist with their torch down roof. Make sure to ask to:

• Ask for before and after photos
• Find out what type of warranties they offer
• Request quotes from multiple contractors
• Research past customer experiences
• Review customer testimonials

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Our Conclusion

While it’s possible to install a torch down roofing system yourself, the risks that come with the installation process outweigh the cost-saving benefits. We recommend working with a roofing professional to minimize issues and maximize your investment. 

To learn more about how we research and recommend roofing companies, check out our detailed rating methodology.

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FAQ About Torch Down Roofing

How long does torch down roofing last?

Torch down roofing should last anywhere from 15 to 20 years. Factors such as climate, weather, and quality of installation can all affect the lifespan of a torch down roof. 

How much does it cost to repair torch down roofing?

Most torch down roofing repairs will cost between $2.50 and $8.50 per square foot. The actual cost you pay for the repair will depend on whether there is a drainage issue or a leak.

How many square feet is in a roll of torch down roofing?

A roll of torch down roofing is 100 square feet

Is torch down roofing the same as rolled roofing?

Even though torch down roofing is a type of rolled roofing, it has a different installation process. While there are multiple ways to install rolled roofing, torch down roofing requires an open flame to be installed properly.

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