Abstract
A great deal of roofing application occurs under less-than-ideal conditions, yet very little information is readily available to specifiers or contractors regarding proper techniques to achieve a quality installation during cold weather. This paper presents information gathered from practical experiences on a number of issues related to the application of various common roof systems in cold weather. For example: Safety is a major concern of all who are involved in the roofing industry. The effects of cold weather require special consideration. Material storage and handling during cold weather often require the use of different equipment and techniques. Inclement weather requires extra preparation and protection of the substrate to achieve a quality system. BUR installation in cold weather requires modification of equipment and some revision of normal application methods. In severe cold weather, the use of tents becomes necessary if work is to proceed. EPDM membranes may be successfully installed in extremely cold weather; however, the membrane and adhesives require additional time to relax and flash off. Special precautions regarding condensation on adhesives is needed. Hand tabbing of asphalt shingles should be considered during cold weather application. Wood shingles and shakes may need to be thawed if the temperature is below freezing. The roofing industry needs to study materials and methods that will allow quality installation in extreme conditions. The findings of these studies should be disseminated throughout the industry in order to provide high-quality roofing year-round at reasonable prices.
A great deal of roofing application occurs under less-than-ideal conditions, yet very little information is readily available to specifiers or contractors regarding proper techniques to achieve a quality installation during cold weather. This paper presents information gathered from practical experiences on a number of issues related to the application of various common roof systems in cold weather. For example: Safety is a major concern of all who are involved in the roofing industry. The effects of cold weather require special consideration. Material storage and handling during cold weather often require the use of different equipment and techniques. Inclement weather requires extra preparation and protection of the substrate to achieve a quality system. BUR installation in cold weather requires modification of equipment and some revision of normal application methods. In severe cold weather, the use of tents becomes necessary if work is to proceed. EPDM membranes may be successfully installed in extremely cold weather; however, the membrane and adhesives require additional time to relax and flash off. Special precautions regarding condensation on adhesives is needed. Hand tabbing of asphalt shingles should be considered during cold weather application. Wood shingles and shakes may need to be thawed if the temperature is below freezing. The roofing industry needs to study materials and methods that will allow quality installation in extreme conditions. The findings of these studies should be disseminated throughout the industry in order to provide high-quality roofing year-round at reasonable prices.
Date
9/1991
9/1991
Author(s)
John Stoll
John Stoll
Page(s)
418-422
418-422
Keyword(s)
wood shingle; wood shake; cold weather application; EPDM; tents; built up; modified bitumen; deck preparation; material storage
wood shingle; wood shake; cold weather application; EPDM; tents; built up; modified bitumen; deck preparation; material storage