Torch On Waterproofing is a bitumen membrane rolled out and heat-bonded with a gas torch to form a tough, seamless layer on flat and low-pitch roofs. It is a common choice for concrete roofs, parapets, box gutters and balconies. Send one request and local waterproofing contractors will contact you with prices.
Describe the job once and get torch on waterproofing quotes from local contractors.
Get Roofing QuotesWhere Torch-On Works Well
- Concrete flat roofs. Bonds firmly to a primed, sound screed.
- Parapets and upstands. Dressed up walls to seal the roof edge.
- Box and valley gutters. Handles standing water better than most coatings.
- Areas with foot traffic. Mineral-finished membranes take light traffic.
What the Work Includes
- Clean the surface and remove loose or failed material.
- Repair cracks and fix low spots with screed so water runs to the outlets.
- Apply bitumen primer and let it dry.
- Torch the membrane down with overlapping, sealed laps.
- Dress the membrane up parapets and around outlets and pipes.
- Finish with a reflective coating or a mineral-finished top layer.
Single or Two-Layer?
- Single layer. Suits most homes with a sound, well-sloped roof.
- Two layers. Adds protection on larger or more exposed roofs, at roughly double the membrane cost.
- Reflective finish. Silver or light coatings reflect heat and protect the bitumen from UV.
Torch On Waterproofing Prices
Ballpark prices so you can sanity-check a quotation.
| Item | Ballpark price |
|---|---|
| Torch-on membrane, single layer | R250 - R500 per m² |
| Two-layer system (roughly double the membrane) | R500 - R1,000 per m² |
| Surface repairs and priming | R30 - R60 per m² |
| Screed to fix ponding | R60 - R100 per m² |
| Parapet wall waterproofing | R3,000 - R8,000 |
| Scaffolding for multi-storey | R5,000 - R15,000 |
Prices JUST UPDATED. Indicative ballpark figures in rand, rounded, based on typical South African market rates. They are not our prices or quotations, and no contractor is bound by them. Ask whether VAT is included, and check what each quotation covers, such as scaffolding, rubble removal and call-out fees.
For a fuller breakdown, see the Roof Waterproofing Cost guide.
Get prices for your roof rather than a range. Send one request, with no obligation.
Get Roofing QuotesWhat Affects the Price
- Roof area. Priced per m², so size is the main driver.
- Surface condition. Old membrane removal, crack repairs and screed add cost.
- Number of layers. A two-layer system roughly doubles membrane cost.
- Detailing. Parapets, outlets, pipes and skylights take extra time.
- Access. Multi-storey roofs may need scaffolding.
How Getting Quotes Works
- Request. Tell us the work, your area and how to reach you. Photos help.
- Match. Your request goes to local roofing contractors suited to the job, with your permission.
- Quote. Contractors contact you, inspect if needed and give a written price.
- Compare. Check scope, materials, warranty and payment terms side by side, then hire one or nobody.
Torch On Waterproofing FAQs
Can torch-on go over an old membrane?
Sometimes, if the old layer is well bonded and dry. Loose or blistered membrane should be stripped first.
Is torch-on safe to apply on a house?
It uses an open flame, so it should only be done by trained applicators who protect timber and keep fire safety on site.
Does torch-on need a top coat?
Plain membranes should get a reflective coating to protect them from UV. Mineral-finished membranes have protection built in.
Can torch-on be applied in wet weather?
No. The surface must be dry for the membrane to bond, so work is planned around rain.
Related Services
Share your roof size and details once with Roof Repairs South Africa and compare torch-on prices from waterproofing contractors.
Roof Repairs South Africa is a lead-generation and quote-comparison service. We do not carry out roofing work and we do not employ roofers. Work is quoted and carried out by independent contractors, and your agreement is with the one you choose. Get a written quotation, check insurance and workmanship warranties, and avoid paying the full amount upfront.
Torch On Waterproofing. Describe what you need once and get the best quote, fast.
Get Roofing QuotesGet the Best Quote, Fast
Keep it brief. Say what needs doing, where the property is and how to reach you. Your enquiry is passed only to roofing contractors suited to the job, and you decide whether to go ahead.
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