Failed Torch-On Replacement. Liquid Waterproofing Systems

If your torch-on waterproofing has failed, you already know the frustration. You paid for a system that was supposed to last, and now the seams are lifting, blisters are forming, and water is getting through again. You may have already had it patched once or twice.

The problem isn't bad luck. Torch-on membranes fail at their joints. Every side lap, end lap, and junction where sheets meet is a potential entry point for water. Your roof may have dozens or hundreds of these points, and they all degrade over time under UV exposure and thermal cycling.

Sealtek Cape replaces failed torch-on systems with liquid waterproofing that has no joints at all. The application is cold, with no open flame and no fire risk. Our accredited waterproofing contractors are trained specifically in torch-on removal and liquid system installation, and every project carries a 5-year written guarantee on materials and workmanship.

Torch-On Replacement Services

We remove failed torch-on membrane systems and replace them with seamless liquid waterproofing. In some cases, where the existing torch-on is still structurally sound but approaching end of life, we can apply liquid waterproofing directly over it as an overlay conversion, avoiding the cost and disruption of full removal.

Every project starts with an on-site assessment to determine whether your roof needs complete removal or overlay conversion.

What Our Failed Torch-On Replacement Services Cover

Complete torch-on removal and replacement

Safe removal of the failed membrane, surface preparation, and installation of a seamless liquid system

Overlay conversion

Where existing torch-on remains sound, liquid waterproofing applied directly over it. DampEnd’s adhesion to bituminous substrates makes it an effective bonding layer for this work

Penetration and detail repair

Targeted repair of the most common torch-on failure points: pipe penetrations, roof outlets, thresholds, counterflashing, and changes in roof geometry

Commercial membrane conversion

Phased programmes for occupied commercial buildings. Liquid systems apply cold, making them safe for retail, office, and healthcare environments

Clients include

Why Torch-On Systems Fail

Seams

Every torch-on installation is assembled from overlapping membrane sheets. Side laps of 75mm and end laps of 100mm must be melted and pressed simultaneously during installation. Over time, adhesion at these joints degrades under UV and thermal stress, allowing water to track between layers.

Rigidity

South African roofs experience large temperature swings at surface level. Torch-on membranes contain polymers for flexibility, but they remain relatively rigid compared to liquid systems. Repeated expansion and contraction cycles cause cracking, blistering, and membrane fatigue, particularly around penetrations and changes in geometry.

Fire risk

Torch-on installation and repair requires propane torches operating at high temperatures. This presents a fire hazard on occupied buildings. Liquid waterproofing applies cold, eliminating this risk entirely.

Maintenance burden

Torch-on systems typically require multiple maintenance interventions. Liquid systems require less ongoing maintenance for comparable protection.

Why Liquid Replaces Torch-On

No joints.

Liquid waterproofing flows into every corner, crack, and surface irregularity, curing as a continuous membrane. The primary failure mechanism in torch-on systems simply does not exist.

Cold application

No propane torches, no open flame, no fumes from burning bitumen. Safe for occupied buildings.

Flexibility

Liquid membranes maintain elasticity across the temperature range that South African roofs experience. They flex with the structure rather than cracking under thermal cycling.

Detail performance

Penetrations, outlets, and irregular geometries are where torch-on performs worst, because sheet membranes cannot conform to complex shapes. Liquid waterproofing conforms to everything.

Stop Patching. Replace It Properly.

If your torch-on keeps failing and you’re tired of paying for repairs that don’t last, get in touch. We’ll assess whether your roof needs full removal or overlay conversion, and give you a permanent liquid system that eliminates the joints where torch-on fails.

Why Accredited Contractors Matter

Converting from torch-on to liquid requires specific knowledge. The existing membrane must be assessed correctly, the substrate prepared to a standard that allows proper adhesion, and the liquid system applied at the right thickness using the right equipment. Getting any of these wrong means the new system underperforms.

Sealtek Accredited Applicators are trained in membrane-to-liquid conversion techniques. They know how to assess whether an existing torch-on can serve as a substrate for overlay, or whether it needs to come off. That expertise is what backs the 5-year written guarantee.

What you get with Sealtek Cape Services

What to Expect When You Contact Us

Step 1: You get in touch

Tell us what’s happening with your torch-on. We’ll connect you with the accredited contractor in your area.

Step 2: On-site assessment

Your local contractor evaluates the existing membrane condition, substrate integrity, and drainage to determine whether complete removal or overlay conversion is appropriate.

Step 3: Quote and specification

The quote reflects whether removal or overlay is recommended, and specifies the Sealtek products and preparation required.

Step 4: Professional installation

The accredited contractor carries out the work. The 5-year written guarantee applies from completion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can liquid waterproofing be applied over existing torch-on?

In many cases, yes. Where the existing torch-on membrane is still structurally sound and properly bonded, liquid waterproofing can be applied directly over it. This reduces cost and project duration. A professional assessment determines whether overlay or complete removal is appropriate.

Is liquid waterproofing safe for occupied buildings?

Yes. Liquid systems apply cold, by spray gun or roller. There are no propane torches, no open flame, and no fumes from burning bitumen. This makes liquid waterproofing the preferred option for occupied residential, commercial, and healthcare buildings.

How long does the guarantee last?

Sealtek Cape provides a 5-year written guarantee covering materials and workmanship when the work is carried out by a Sealtek Accredited Applicator and maintained according to our specifications.