Torch-on & liquid applied membrane systems

There is no universal “best” membrane, only the right system for geometry, fire constraints, substrate condition, and maintenance access. Maverick specifies torch-on, liquid polyurethane, acrylic, or hybrid programmes after moisture risk assessment, adhesion testing, and manufacturer exposure tables, so guarantees remain enforceable after handover.

Torch-on fits big, open concrete decks when hot works, wind limits, and insurers align. Seams, corner reinforcement, and protection sheets follow datasheets, no improvised laps or shortcut primers that void the guarantee.

Liquids follow complex shapes, plant bases, and penetrations without seam grids vulnerable to holidays. Primers, fleeces, and UV topcoats are sequenced with dew-point and moisture discipline before each coat closes.

Many sites torch field areas and detail in liquid at HVAC clusters, parapets, and outlets. Interfaces between systems are documented so a warranty claim cannot die at the trade boundary nobody planned for.

Completed torch-on membrane on a small flat roof without topcoat

Core interventions

Flat concrete roof waterproofingLeaking balcony repairTorch-on vs liquid technical guide
Finished grey liquid-applied membrane on a modest flat roof section
Close-up of a completed torch-on membrane lap joint
Finished membrane dress-down at a roof outlet on a small flat slab

Our waterproofing approach

Diagnostics first. Detailing discipline. Co-signed guarantees.

PHASE_01

When torch-on is the right tool

Torch-on fits big, open concrete decks when hot works, wind limits, and insurers align.

PHASE_02

When liquid systems win

Liquids follow complex shapes, plant bases, and penetrations without seam grids vulnerable to holidays.

PHASE_03

Hybrid programmes are common

Many sites torch field areas and detail in liquid at HVAC clusters, parapets, and outlets.

PHASE_04

Fire constraints & alternative specifications

Retail podiums and insured assets sometimes ban open flame.

Waterproofing Philosophy

Why membrane renewals belong in your portfolio risk plan

Completed liquid membrane renewal on a small flat roof wing

Phase 01 / Assessment

Torch-to-liquid conversion

Core samples showed inter-laminary moisture in an aged torch-on deck; phased drying and a liquid overlay avoided trapping vapour under a repeat torch layer.

Torch-on fits big, open concrete decks when hot works, wind limits, and insurers align. Seams, corner reinforcement, and protection sheets follow datasheets, no improvised laps or shortcut primers that void the guarantee.

Liquids follow complex shapes, plant bases, and penetrations without seam grids vulnerable to holidays. Primers, fleeces, and UV topcoats are sequenced with dew-point and moisture discipline before each coat closes.

Many sites torch field areas and detail in liquid at HVAC clusters, parapets, and outlets. Interfaces between systems are documented so a warranty claim cannot die at the trade boundary nobody planned for.

Related scope: Flat concrete roof waterproofing

Dedicated waterproofing service pages

Thin, catch-all waterproofing pages dilute intent for high-value queries like flat slab renewals, under-tile balconies, and basement tanking. Maverick’s spoke pages unpack methodology, compliance context, and BC documentation separately.

Finished torch-on membrane upturn at a low parapet wall
Completed liquid membrane sealed around a small roof penetration
Finished cold-applied liquid membrane on a small retail podium roof

Phase 02 / Execution

Insurance-driven flame restrictions

A retail podium required full liquid specification after insurer declined hot works; detailing at drains matched manufacturer-approved liquid details.

Liquids follow complex shapes, plant bases, and penetrations without seam grids vulnerable to holidays. Primers, fleeces, and UV topcoats are sequenced with dew-point and moisture discipline before each coat closes.

Many sites torch field areas and detail in liquid at HVAC clusters, parapets, and outlets. Interfaces between systems are documented so a warranty claim cannot die at the trade boundary nobody planned for.

Retail podiums and insured assets sometimes ban open flame. We switch to full liquid or cold-applied stacks with insurer-ready method statements, fire watches where still required, and penetration details that match listing letters.

Related scope: Leaking balcony repair

Completed hybrid torch-on and liquid membrane roof on a small office unit

Phase 03 / Handover

Hybrid office roof

Field areas used torch-on for speed while plant bases received liquid flashings, reducing programme risk without compromising critical interfaces.

Many sites torch field areas and detail in liquid at HVAC clusters, parapets, and outlets. Interfaces between systems are documented so a warranty claim cannot die at the trade boundary nobody planned for.

Retail podiums and insured assets sometimes ban open flame. We switch to full liquid or cold-applied stacks with insurer-ready method statements, fire watches where still required, and penetration details that match listing letters.

Torch-on fits big, open concrete decks when hot works, wind limits, and insurers align. Seams, corner reinforcement, and protection sheets follow datasheets, no improvised laps or shortcut primers that void the guarantee.

Related scope: Torch-on vs liquid technical guide

Frequently asked questions

Technical answers for procurement teams, trustees, and facility managers in Gauteng.

Is torch-on still used in Gauteng?

Yes where permits, wind, and substrate conditions allow. Maverick selects systems based on risk registers, not product preference.

Can liquid membranes go over torch-on?

Sometimes, after adhesion and moisture testing. Not every aged torch-on deck is a suitable substrate.

What about fire risk?

Hot works controls, fire watches, and insurer approvals are planned. Liquid systems are specified when flame work is prohibited.

Do you issue QA reports?

Independent QA can be bundled for portfolio managers requiring third-party sign-off on film build and holiday testing.

How do I compare quotes?

Compare system type, removal scope, detailing standards, and warranty maintenance obligations, not m² bait pricing alone.

Our Unbeatable Guarantee

De-Risking Your Multi-Million Rand Asset.

Unlike standard contractors who rely on biased, in-house quality checks, we use a trusted, independent third-party QA company on all projects. This is our commitment to verifiably superior quality.

  1. 01

    Substrate Specification & Assessment

    A dedicated project manager and the independent body conduct an on-site assessment to determine the correct coating system and technical specification required for your specific asset.

  2. 02

    Continuous Application Inspection

    The independent company performs continuous application inspections at every critical stage (surface prep, primer, film thickness) to ensure manufacturer requirements are met before the final coat.

  3. 03

    Verifiable Bi-Weekly Reporting

    You receive bi-weekly progress and substrate reports providing a complete, recorded history of the project. This delivers objective proof of quality and total peace of mind for trustees and facility managers.

Verifiable Proof of Quality

Certified Applicators & Industry Compliant

SikaPlasconDuluxa.b.e.Marmoran
MBA & NAMA Registered
Fully OHS Compliant

Ready for Verifiable, Zero-Risk Quality?

Contact us today to schedule an on-site assessment and receive your substrate-specific specification.