What is Torch-On Waterproof Membrane ? 🛡️
The Roofing Hero You Didn't Know You Needed -- in Singapore
If you own a property in a high-rainfall climate, or even a building with a flat roof or balcony, you know that waterproofing isn't just a suggestion—it's a necessity. Water leaks are a homeowner's nightmare, leading to dampness, mould, and structural damage.
Enter the torch-on waterproof membrane, one of the most reliable and heavy-duty solutions in the construction world. It's the resilient, thick armour that protects your building.
What Exactly is a Torch-On Waterproof Membrane?
Think of it as a super-tough, rolled-out blanket for your roof or foundation.
The Material: The membrane itself is a sheet made from bitumen (a petroleum-based asphalt compound) that has been chemically modified with polymers to enhance its performance. The two main types you'll hear about are:
- APP (Atactic Polypropylene): Modified with a plastic polymer, this type is highly resistant to UV rays and high temperatures, making it a great choice for exposed flat roofs where the sun beats down.
- SBS (Styrene-Butadiene-Styrene): Modified with a synthetic rubber, this type offers greater elasticity and flexibility, which is ideal for structures that experience significant movement or temperature fluctuations.
The Application: The term "torch-on" describes the installation process. The membrane comes in large rolls. A professional uses a heated propane torch to carefully melt the underside of the roll as it's laid down. This molten bitumen then fuses permanently to the prepared surface (the substrate). Critical to this method is the careful melting of the seams where two sheets overlap, creating a monolithic, seamless barrier against water.
The Purpose: Simply put, it creates an impenetrable, durable layer that is highly resistant to puncture and wear. It's often used for:
- Flat or low-sloped roofs (where water tends to sit).
- Balconies and terraces (often installed beneath the tiles/screed).
- Planter boxes and green roofs.
- Basement tanking and retaining walls.
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Why is This Method So Popular (and Effective)?
While newer liquid-applied systems exist, the torch-on method remains a favourite for high-stakes waterproofing due to its core benefits:
| Feature | The Homeowner Benefit |
|---|---|
| Durability & Thickness | It's usually 3mm to 4mm thick, offering exceptional longevity (up to 15 years or more) and resistance to physical damage. |
| Superior Water Resistance | The modified bitumen forms a dense, plastic-like barrier that is essentially waterproof, preventing water from seeping through, even in standing water (ponding). |
| High Adhesion | The heat-fused bond to the substrate means it's fully adhered, reducing the chance of water migrating underneath if a small tear occurs elsewhere. |
| Weather Resistant | Depending on the type (APP or SBS), it handles both extreme heat and freezing cold without cracking, peeling, or degrading quickly. |
The Bottom Line: A professionally installed torch-on membrane provides a sturdy, reliable, and time-tested defence against water intrusion, giving you peace of mind that your structural assets are protected.
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