Services · Torch Down Roofing
Torch Down (Modified Bitumen) Roofing in San Diego
Multi-ply SBS and APP torch-down roofing systems for low-slope residential and light-commercial roofs. Watertight, UV-stable, and built for San Diego's climate — installed by trained crews with proper safety protocols and city permits.
SBS and APP modified bitumen systems
2-ply and 3-ply assemblies for maximum longevity
Cap sheets in white, gray, and colored granules
Full torch-safety protocol with permits and fire watch
Ideal for low-slope patio covers, dormers, and porches
15–25 year lifecycle with proper installation
About Our Torch Down Roofing Service
Torch-down (modified bitumen) is one of the most reliable low-slope roofing systems available. It combines the redundancy of built-up roofing with the flexibility of a single-ply membrane. Our crews are trained in proper torch safety, obtain required city permits, and maintain fire watch protocol on every installation — critical in San Diego's fire-prone environment.
Best For
Low-slope residential sections, patio and porch covers, second-story additions, garage roofs, and small commercial applications.
Our Process
Every torch-down project includes a substrate inspection, base sheet installation, cap sheet torch-application, and detailed flashing at penetrations, walls, and drains. We pull all required permits and schedule fire watch per city code.
Warranty
Manufacturer warranties from 15–20 years plus our workmanship warranty on all seams and details.
Torch Down Roofing Guides from Our Roofers
- Commercial · 9 min readTPO Roofing for San Diego Commercial Buildings: The Complete GuideWhy TPO dominates flat-roof commercial work in Southern California — energy performance, warranty realities, thickness grades, and what to look for in a TPO installer.Read the guide
- Homeowner Guide · 8 min readRoof Leak Repair in San Diego: Emergency Steps, Causes & CostsHow to stop a roof leak in San Diego fast — emergency steps, common causes, repair costs, and when to call a licensed roofing contractor.Read the guide
- Materials · 11 min readBest Roofing Materials for San Diego Homes (2026)Shingle vs tile vs standing-seam metal vs TPO for San Diego — how each material handles coastal salt air, relentless UV and Santa Ana winds, with 2026 installed pricing.Read the guide
- Materials · 10 min readMetal Roof San Diego: Cost, Types & 2026 Buyer's GuideEverything San Diego homeowners need before buying a metal roof — standing seam vs exposed fastener, 2026 cost per square foot, Title 24 cool-roof rebates, lifespan, and installer vetting.Read the guide
Price Match Promise
Got a competing roofing bid in San Diego County? We'll beat it.
Upload any written quote from a licensed C-39 roofing contractor with 3+ years in business — we verify the license with the CSLB and come back with a lower fixed price on the same scope.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does torch-down roofing last?
A properly installed 2-ply modified bitumen system lasts 15–20 years; 3-ply systems can reach 25 years. Longevity depends on cap-sheet quality and detailing at penetrations.
Is torch-down safe near living spaces?
Yes when installed with proper safety protocol. Our crews maintain fire watch, use fire-resistant blankets on adjacent materials, and pull required permits — never a corner-cut torch job.
How much does torch-down roofing cost in San Diego?
A 2-ply SBS or APP modified bitumen roof in San Diego typically runs $9–$14 per square foot installed for residential low-slope sections; 3-ply assemblies run $12–$18 depending on cap sheet and access.
What is the difference between SBS and APP modified bitumen?
SBS (rubberized) stays more flexible in cool temperatures and is preferred for foot-traffic areas; APP (plasticized) is more UV-stable and preferred for hot exposed decks. We select based on slope, traffic, and sun exposure.
Can torch-down be installed in wet weather?
No — the substrate must be dry for proper adhesion. We monitor forecasts, tarp exposed decks overnight, and schedule torch application only when the deck reads dry on a moisture meter.
Do you pull permits for torch-down roofing?
Yes. San Diego and every incorporated city in the county require a permit and fire watch for open-flame roofing. Our office pulls the permit, schedules inspection, and maintains fire watch for the required window after torch-off.
Can torch-down go over an existing flat roof?
Sometimes — if the existing deck and any recover layer meet code and pass a moisture check. In most cases we tear off the existing system to verify sheathing and prevent trapped moisture.
What warranty comes with a torch-down roof?
Polyglass, GAF, and CertainTeed modified bitumen systems carry 15–20 year manufacturer warranties. We add a workmanship warranty on every seam, penetration, and wall termination.
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