Torch On Waterproofing in South Africa is a bitumen membrane, melted onto the roof with a gas torch, that forms a continuous waterproof layer. Send one request and independent local waterproofing contractors reply with prices.
Give the roof size and current covering, and get torch-on quotes.
Get Waterproofing QuotesWhat a New Torch-On Job Covers
- Preparation. Cleaning, repairing cracks and priming the substrate.
- Membrane. Rolls torched down with overlapping laps of about 100 mm.
- Details. Upstands, parapets, outlets, pipes and edges dressed and sealed.
- Finish. Mineral-chip surface or a silver reflective coat over plain membrane.
Where Torch-On Works Best
- Flat concrete roofs. Homes, flats and commercial slabs with a slight fall.
- Concrete gutters and parapets. Box gutters and walls that hold water.
- Balconies and podiums. Under screeds or tiles where specified.
- Garage and outbuilding roofs. Small slabs with simple details.
It is not suited to timber decks, steep pitches or areas close to combustible materials without extra precautions.
Membrane Options
- 3 mm membrane. Lighter and cheaper, for smaller roofs with little foot traffic.
- 4 mm membrane. Thicker and more durable, the usual choice for exposed flat roofs.
- APP membrane. Plastomeric bitumen with good UV and heat resistance.
- SBS membrane. Elastomeric bitumen that stays flexible in cold and on moving substrates.
- Mineral finish. Granules protect the membrane from sun without painting.
- Plain with silver coat. Needs a reflective coat, renewed every few years.
Torch On Waterproofing Prices
Ballpark prices so you can sanity-check a quotation.
| Item | Ballpark price |
|---|---|
| 4 mm torch-on, supplied and installed | R250 - R450 per m² |
| 3 mm torch-on, supplied and installed | R220 - R380 per m² |
| Strip old membrane | R40 - R90 per m² |
| Surface preparation and priming | R30 - R60 per m² |
| Silver reflective coat | R25 - R60 per m² |
| Scaffolding or access | R5,000 - R15,000 |
Prices JUST UPDATED. Indicative ballpark figures in rand, rounded, including labour unless stated. They are not our prices or quotations, and no contractor is bound by them. Confirm VAT, access costs, the product system and what each quotation includes.
Get prices for your property rather than a range. Send one request and see who replies.
Get Waterproofing QuotesWhat Affects the Quote
- Roof size. Small roofs cost more per m² because setup is fixed.
- Existing covering. Stripping and repairing the old layer adds labour.
- Details. Many pipes, outlets and upstands slow the work.
- Membrane choice. 4 mm, SBS and mineral finishes cost more.
- Access. Height and scaffolding add a once-off cost.
How the Work Is Done
- Inspection. The contractor checks falls, cracks, outlets and the old covering.
- Preparation. The roof is cleaned, repaired and primed, and left to dry.
- Laying. Rolls are torched down from the lowest point with sealed laps.
- Details. Upstands, flashings and outlets are finished.
- Finish. A reflective coat is applied if the membrane is not mineral-finished.
Preparation and Disruption
- Dry weather. Torch-on cannot be laid on a wet roof or in rain.
- Fire risk. Ask how the team protects timber, fascias and roof vents near the flame.
- Noise and smell. Expect gas burner noise and bitumen fumes for a few days.
- Access. Clear a path for rolls, gas bottles and a ladder or scaffold.
Questions to Ask Waterproofing Contractors
- Which membrane, thickness and brand will you use?
- Will the old covering be stripped or overlaid?
- How will you fix ponding and poor falls?
- What warranty do you offer, and what does it exclude?
- Who carries public liability insurance for fire damage?
Torch On Waterproofing FAQs
How long does torch-on last?
A well-laid 4 mm membrane with a maintained finish often lasts 10 to 15 years. Sun, foot traffic and ponding shorten it.
Can torch-on go over an old membrane?
Sometimes, if the old layer is well bonded and dry. Blistered or wet layers must be stripped.
Does torch-on need painting?
Plain membranes need a silver or reflective coat to protect them from UV. Mineral-finished membranes do not.
Is torch-on safe near timber?
Contractors must take care near timber and combustibles. A cold-applied or liquid system may suit those areas better.
Will torch-on stop all my leaks?
Only if the leak comes through the roof surface. Leaks from walls, parapets or plumbing need their own repair.
Related Services
Request torch-on quotes through Waterproofing South Africa and check membrane thickness, preparation and finish in each one.
Waterproofing South Africa is a quote and referral service. We do not carry out waterproofing work and we do not employ contractors. Work is quoted and carried out by independent local contractors, and your agreement is with the one you choose. The right system depends on an inspection and the cause of the water ingress. Ask for a written quotation, the product system and the guarantee terms before you pay a deposit.
Torch On Waterproofing. Describe what you need once and get the best quote, fast.
Get Waterproofing QuotesGet the Best Quote, Fast
Keep it brief. Say what is leaking or damp, the type of surface and your suburb. Your enquiry is passed only to contractors suited to the job, and you decide whether to go ahead.
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