Torch Down Roof Replacement in Los Angeles, CA – 2970 Waverly Dr

Roof Replacement Inc completed a full torch down roof replacement at 2970 Waverly Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90039, restoring a deteriorated flat roof on a two-story residential home to a clean, watertight condition. The existing built-up roof membrane had reached the end of its serviceable life and was stripped entirely before a new modified bitumen system was installed. The finished roof presents a uniform white granule-surfaced cap sheet across the full field, with properly integrated penetrations, skylights, and flashing details.

Photos taken at the start of the job show the old membrane cracked, buckled, and separating from the deck in large pieces — classic signs of a built-up roof that had aged past the point of repair. In several areas the underlying wood plank deck was already exposed where the membrane had failed. The scope called for a complete tear-off down to the structural deck, followed by a full rebuild of the waterproofing assembly.

Project Gallery

Tearing Off the Failed Built-Up Membrane

The crew began by mechanically removing the existing built-up roof, which was visibly cracking and delaminating across the entire field. Workers used shovels, flat bars, and rakes to break apart and lift the old membrane in sections, exposing the original tongue-and-groove wood plank deck beneath. Debris was collected into bags and buckets for disposal. Once stripping was complete, the bare deck was swept clean so the condition of every board could be assessed before any new material was applied.

Deck Preparation and Base Sheet Installation

With the deck fully exposed, the team confirmed the wood planking was structurally sound and proceeded to install a base sheet layer as the foundation of the new waterproofing assembly. The base sheet was mechanically fastened across the deck in overlapping courses, as seen in photos showing the dark underlayment material being rolled out with visible fastener lines. A roll of Polyglass-branded base sheet is visible in one photo, indicating the use of a fiberglass-reinforced SBS modified bitumen base. Metal drip edge flashing was installed along the perimeter to terminate the membrane cleanly at the roof edge.

Torch-Applied Cap Sheet and Penetration Detailing

The cap sheet layer — a granule-surfaced white modified bitumen membrane — was applied using propane torch equipment, which is visible in several photos alongside the rolled material staged on the deck. The torch-down process bonds each course of cap sheet to the base layer with heat, creating a fully adhered, seamless waterproofing system. Around the brick chimney, skylights, and pipe penetrations, the crew executed individual flashing details to integrate each element into the membrane plane. New metal counter-flashing was installed at the chimney, and each skylight curb was wrapped and sealed within the membrane system.

Final Surface and Site Condition

Aerial photos taken after completion show the finished roof as a continuous white granule-surfaced field with consistent lap lines running the width of the building. All penetrations — pipe stacks, vent caps, and skylight frames — are cleanly integrated with no exposed edges or open seams visible. The perimeter drip edge presents a uniform finished line on all sides. The site was cleared of debris and staging material before final documentation photos were taken.

Project Details

ScopeFull tear-off of a failed built-up flat roof and replacement with a two-layer torch-applied modified bitumen system on a residential property, including perimeter flashing and penetration detailing.
ServiceTorch Down Roof Replacement
Property TypeResidential
LocationLos Angeles, CA
CompletedMarch 21, 2026
Materials UsedSBS modified bitumen base sheet (Polyglass brand visible on packaging), Granule-surfaced white modified bitumen cap sheet, Torch-applied adhesion method (propane torches visible on site), Metal drip edge flashing at roof perimeter, Metal counter-flashing at brick chimney, Pipe boot and vent penetration flashings

Roofing in Los Angeles, CA

Flat and low-slope roofs in Los Angeles face a demanding combination of intense UV exposure, wide daily temperature swings, occasional heavy winter rain events, and periodic Santa Ana wind conditions — all of which accelerate the aging of built-up and modified bitumen membranes. The region’s Mediterranean climate means roofs go years without significant rainfall and then must shed significant water quickly when storms arrive, making a fully adhered, watertight cap sheet critical. Torch-down modified bitumen systems are a widely used solution for flat residential roofs throughout the Los Angeles area because they resist UV degradation and provide reliable waterproofing without the complexity of a ballasted system.

Our Service Area: Los Angeles, CA

Frequently Asked Questions

When a built-up or modified bitumen membrane is cracking, bubbling, or separating from the deck in multiple areas, patching typically stops being cost-effective because the underlying material has lost its flexibility and adhesion. On this job the old membrane was lifting and fragmenting across the entire roof surface, which is a clear indicator that the system had failed systemically rather than in isolated spots. A roofing contractor can probe the membrane and check for moisture in the assembly to help determine whether repairs can extend the roof’s life or whether a full tear-off is the more practical path. As a general rule, if more than a third of the membrane surface shows active deterioration, replacement is usually worth serious consideration.
Torch down roofing refers to modified bitumen membrane sheets that are heat-welded to the substrate and to each other using a propane torch, creating a fully adhered waterproofing layer without relying on adhesive or mechanical fasteners at the seams. The modified bitumen material contains rubber polymers that give it flexibility across temperature cycles, which matters on flat roofs that expand and contract more dramatically than sloped surfaces. The torch-applied method produces a strong, consistent bond when done correctly and is well suited to roofs with multiple penetrations — pipes, vents, skylights — that need to be carefully integrated into the membrane. It is a proven system that has been used on residential and commercial flat roofs for decades.
In the City of Los Angeles, a full roof replacement — including tear-off and re-roofing — generally does require a building permit, though the specific requirements can vary depending on the scope of work and the property’s zoning. Permit requirements exist to ensure the new roof assembly meets current building code, including fire-rating standards, which are particularly relevant given wildfire risk in many parts of the region. Homeowners should confirm permit requirements with the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety before work begins, and a licensed roofing contractor should be able to advise on what documentation is needed for the specific project.
The biggest factor for flat roofs in Los Angeles is ultraviolet exposure — the region receives intense sun year-round, which breaks down roofing membranes and bitumen binders over time. Granule-surfaced cap sheets like the white membrane installed on this project help reflect UV radiation and reduce heat absorption at the membrane surface. Temperature cycling between cool nights and hot days also stresses the membrane, which is why modified bitumen with rubber polymers performs better than older all-bitumen built-up systems on flat roofs here. When heavy rain does arrive, a flat roof with inadequate drainage or compromised seams will show failures quickly, so maintaining clear drains and inspecting flashings after major storms is worthwhile.
On a single-family home with a flat roof of typical residential size, a full tear-off and torch down replacement can often be completed in one to two days under good working conditions, though jobs with complex penetration layouts, multiple skylights, or structural deck repairs can take longer. The photos from this project show the tear-off, deck prep, base sheet installation, and cap sheet application all occurring within the same working day. Actual schedule depends on roof size, the extent of any deck repairs needed, weather conditions, and crew availability — your contractor can give a more specific estimate once they have assessed the roof in person.
After a new torch down roof is installed, the most important maintenance task is keeping drains and scuppers clear of debris so water does not pond on the surface for extended periods. Ponding water is one of the leading contributors to premature flat roof failure, and in Los Angeles it most commonly becomes an issue after leaf fall in autumn or following wind events that blow debris onto the roof. It is also worth doing a visual inspection after any significant storm to check that no flashing has lifted around penetrations or at the perimeter. Most contractors recommend a professional inspection every few years to catch minor issues — like small membrane splits at lap seams — before they become interior leaks.

Get a Flat Roof Inspection in Los Angeles

If your flat or low-slope roof is showing signs of cracking, blistering, or water intrusion, Roof Replacement Inc serves homeowners throughout Los Angeles and the surrounding communities. Contact our team to schedule an on-site assessment and learn what options make sense for your property.

Project Details

DATE

April 5, 2026

CLIENT
Work Done
CITY

What Our Clients Say

Google Reviews for Roof Replacement Inc

What Our Clients Say

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jamie mccowen profile picture
jamie mccowen
12 October 2026
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Great pricing, friendly and helpful, and the job was done well. Would recommend to anyone looking to get some remodeling done.

Owner's reply
Thank you so much for the fantastic feedback, Jamie! We're thrilled everything went smoothly with your remodeling project, and we're always here for any future roofing or home improvement needs!
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Colin McCowen profile picture
Colin McCowen
11 October 2026
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Called for an estimate because I’m planning to do some remodeling, they were very nice and helpful, pricing was reasonable, and would highly recommend.

Owner's reply
Thank you for your review, Colin! It is fantastic to hear that our team could provide the clarity and support you needed for your upcoming project. Please keep us in mind whenever you are ready to take the next step!
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angel m profile picture
angel m
5 October 2026
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Had them come to my house for an estimate. Not only was the price reasonable but they were super friendly and willing to work with me. I would recommend this company to anybody who’s looking to get their roof done.

Owner's reply
It was a pleasure walking you through your roofing options, Angel! Our team is dedicated to providing honest, transparent guidance so you can make the best decision for your home. Whenever you are ready to move forward with a Roof Replacement Inc, we will be right here to help.
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Jimmy Alastair Martinez Real Estate Inc. profile picture
Jimmy Alastair Martinez Real Estate Inc.
5 October 2026
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Adolfo is an excellent roofer and always does a great job for my clients! I highly recommend Adolfo for all of your roofing needs.

Owner's reply
We deeply appreciate your continued partnership and recommendation, Jimmy! Ensuring your clients receive dependable inspections and seamless roofing solutions is a responsibility we take seriously. Our team are always ready to support your next project!
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Joel Erben profile picture
Joel Erben
31 August 2026
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Adolfo, Dennis, and their entire team were fantastic. The entire process from beginning to end was straight forward, efficient, and thoroughly planned. The new roofs and repairs are beautifully done and will last us decades.

Owner's reply
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience! We truly appreciate your kind words and the trust you placed in Roof Replacement Inc. It was a pleasure working with you for your properties in Highland Park and we’re very happy to hear that you were satisfied with the planning, communication, and quality of the completed roofing work. Our goal is always to provide a smooth experience while delivering workmanship that our customers can depend on for many years to come. Thank you again for choosing Roof Replacement Inc. We truly appreciate your business and your recommendation!
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Rene Weaver profile picture
Rene Weaver
9 August 2026
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We had a great experience with Roof Replacement Inc. They were professional, reliable, on time, and reasonably priced. The crew did excellent work, kept everything clean throughout the project, and did a great job with the final cleanup. Communication was easy, and the entire process went smoothly from start to finish. Our new roof looks great, and we are very happy with the quality of their work. I highly recommend Roof Replacement Inc.!

Owner's reply
Thank you so much, Rene, for your wonderful 5-star review! It was truly a pleasure helping you with your roof replacement project in Burbank. We're thrilled to hear that you were happy with our professionalism, communication, and the quality of our workmanship from start to finish. At Roof Replacement Inc., we take pride in delivering high-quality roofing services while keeping every job site clean, safe, and organized. Knowing that you're happy with your new roof and that we exceeded your expectations means a great deal to our entire team. Thank you for trusting us with your home in Burbank, CA, and for recommending us to others. If you ever need roofing maintenance, inspections, or have any questions in the future, we're always here to help. Enjoy your beautiful new roof!
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Rene W. profile picture
Rene W.
9 August 2026
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We had a great experience with Roof Replacement Inc. They were professional, reliable, on time, and reasonably priced. The crew did excellent work, kept everything clean throughout the project, and did a great job with the final cleanup. Communication was easy, and the entire process went smoothly from start to finish. Our new roof looks great, and we are very happy with the quality of their work. I highly recommend Roof Replacement Inc.!
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Tay Cass profile picture
Tay Cass
6 August 2026
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Roof Replacement Inc did an outstanding job! They were, professional, and completed my roof right on schedule.

Owner's reply
Thank you, Tay, for the 5-star review! We’re glad you had a great experience with Roof Replacement Inc. and that our team delivered professional service while completing your roofing project right on schedule. We truly appreciate your trust in our company and your kind words about our workmanship. Thank you for choosing Roof Replacement Inc.—we’ll be here whenever you need roof repairs, maintenance, or future roofing services! 🏠
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stephanie pena profile picture
stephanie pena
4 August 2026
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Roof Replacement Inc was recommended by a dear friend. They did an outstanding job! They were punctual, professional, and completed our new roof right on schedule. The crew was efficient, kept the workspace clean, and delivered top-notch quality at a fair price. Highly recommend them to anyone needing roof work!

Owner's reply
Thank you so much, Stephanie, for your wonderful review and for trusting Roof Replacement Inc. with your roofing project! We're honored that a friend's recommendation led you to us, and we're thrilled to hear that you were happy with our team's professionalism, punctuality, and workmanship. We take great pride in completing every project on schedule, maintaining a clean job site, and delivering quality roofing at a fair price. Your recommendation means a great deal to us, and we truly appreciate your support. If you ever need roofing services in the future, we'll be here to help. Thank you again! 🏠⭐
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Jerome Sander profile picture
Jerome Sander
2 August 2026
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+3
Our Spanish tile roof was recently renovated by Roof Replacement, Inc. They did an excellent job in a timely and professional manner. The crew started on time every day, were respectful of our property, kept a neat jobsite, and were meticulous craftsmen. At the end the crew did an excellent job of cleaning up. The schedule proceeded as Adolfo said it would. There were no surprises, delays or disappointments. In all, a very satisfactory experience for us. I highly recommend them.

Owner's reply
Jerome, Thank you so much for your wonderful review and recommendation! It was truly a pleasure working with you on your Spanish tile roof renovation in Glendale. We greatly appreciate your kind words about our crew's craftsmanship, professionalism, punctuality, and attention to keeping the jobsite clean throughout the project. Our goal is always to provide a smooth, stress-free experience while delivering the highest quality workmanship, so we're thrilled to hear we met your expectations. Thank you again for trusting Roof Replacement, Inc. with your home. We sincerely appreciate your business and are always here if you ever need anything in the future.