NRCA Course Summary

ROOFING 101 MODULE 1

Lesson1: The basics

- The need for dry secure shelter dates to the beginning of time.
- Common goal of creating long lasting, trouble free roof systems and they work in parts.

1. Professional Roofing Contractors (Must comply with governmental regulations OSHA, DOT, EPA) They are
required to train their employees on job hazards and establish comprehensive safety programs and policies to keep
them safe. Specialize in how design and install the products and materials that make up high performance.
2. Trade Associations (The NRCA is an association of roofing, roof deck, sheet metal and waterproofing
contractors and industry related members to help operate as the voice of roofing)
3. Building owners (Many types but one thing in common, they want trouble-free long-life performances from their
roof system, every building needs to keep dry, maintained, repaired or replaced, when this happens the owner
contacts a contractor)
4. Roof System Designers (There are many materials, depends on context)
5. Product Performance and Testing (Performance orgs include ASTM International, Underwriters Laboratories
Inc UL, FM Global FML)
6. Roofing Products Manufacturers (Products and materials and sell products through distributors)
7. Building code agencies (The main purpose of building codes is to protect public health, safety and general
welfare as they relate to the construction and occupancy of buildings and structures, focused on fires, wind and
water damage or collapse from internal or external forces)
8. Other regulatory agencies.

Lesson 2: Safety in the roofing industry

1. Public Safety (Bulging Occupants and passers by must be protected from injury or significant disturbance)
2. Worker Safety (Reduces insurance claims and premiums productivity) Worker injury > Contractor > Building owner.
3. Building protection (Provisions must be made to safeguard the building from damage caused by fire, snow, ice rain)
4. Environmental protection (Disposal materials)

- OSHA is the largest regulatory agency that provides the roofing industry with legal requirements for safety.
- EPA regulates introduction of materials into the environment.

Lesson 3: Basic roofing terminology and definitions

A roof is the cover of a building. The function of a roof is to protect a building’s interior from the elements.

1. Roofing Slope (Can be divided into two categories, low slope typically on commercial and steep slope more
residential)
2. Determining the Slope of a Roof
- LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO 3 INCH VERTICAL RISE PER 12 INCH HORIZONTAL > Low slope
- Greater are steep slope roofs.
3. Roof Assembly (The combination of the roof deck and the roof system is called the roof assembly, designers may
determine the type of roof deck needed, and roofing contractors may install the roof system)
4. Low slope Roof System Components
- Vapor retarder is used to reduce the flow of water vapor.
- Insulation material used to reduce flow of heat into and out of the building.
- Weatherproof membrane is used to keep the building dry.
5. Steep slope roof styles
- Shed roof
- Gable Roof
- Hip Roof
- Gambrel Roof
- Mansard Roof
6. Steep slope Roof system Components
1. Deck
2. Underlayment
NRCA Course Summary
3. Water Shedding Covering
7. Field and flashing > Every roof whether its low slope or steep slope has two functional areas, field is the main open
part of the roof system design and the flashing is any area of a roof system where the field is interrupted or terminates
like a chimney, vent or pipe, these always need to be sealed.
8. Positive Drainage > Is a condition where roof slope ensures drainage of a roof within 48 hours following the end of
rainfall, when conditions are conductive to drying. Ponding is the contrary.
- The added weight of standing water can stress a roof structure and cause the structure to collapse.
- UV Damage from the water.
- Accumulation of dirt.
- Manufacturers won’t provide warranties.
9. New construction > Install a roof under construction.
10. Reroofing
- Tear off, existing roof coverings are completely removed, exposing the deck prior to the installation of the new
covering. This is done when there are many layers of if moisture is trapped. The deck can be repaired.
- Re-cover a new roof covering is installed over the old one.
- Retrofit a steep slope roof is constructed over an existing low slope roof. Used to change the look of the building
or provide positive drainage.

Lesson 4: Components of a roof Assembly

There are many layers and components in roof assembly construction.

1. Roof Deck during construction process a roof system is installed over a roof deck, Usually the roofing industry refers
to decks by their material type. For example, concrete, steel or wood. Decks are further classified by their resistance to
fire (combustible or noncombustible) and their ability to attach fasteners to hold the roof system in place. (mailable or
nonmailable)
2. Vapor Retarder used to into control the flow of vapors a roof system. Used for high indoor humidity.
3. Insulation used to reduce the flow of heat in the building. Improve energy and efficiency.
4. Weatherproof membrane function to resist the water from penetrating into the building even under short term
ponding water conditions.
5. Water shedding covering steep slope roofs function by using gravity to shed water down the slope.

Lesson 5: Types of Roof assemblies

All roof assemblies are made of interacting components with an outer layer generally consisting of a weatherproof membrane or
water shedding covering to keep the building dry. There are many products available for the outer layer of a roof assembly.

1. Low Slope Roof Types

- Bituminous systems
- Single ply systems
- Metal Systems
- Spray polyurethane foam systems
- Vegetative roof assemblies.

1.1. BUR and Polymer modified bitumen roof assemblies

- There are two categories that use bitumen as a primary element, is either asphalt based, or coal tar based. Asphalt
comes from petroleum; coal tar comes from coal. Bitumen is used for water proofing and is a good adhesive.
- Built up Roof System - The oldest type of weatherproof membrane, often used for commercial and industrial
buildings, is a built-up roof BUR system. Consists of three parts.
1. Bitumen – coal tar or asphalt that provides waterproofing.
2. Reinforcement – ply sheets that are layered with the bitumen to create the roof membrane. Commonly called
felts.
3. A surfacing material – Protects the membrane from UV degradation and weather erosion.
- A BUR membrane is constructed at a job site by assembling the layers directly on the roof.
- A Polymer modified Bitumen System – A polymer modified bitumen membrane is also made up of bitumen, but
these components are assembled into sheets at a factory before being installed.
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1.2. Single ply Roof Assemblies
- Another type of weatherproof membrane for low slope roof assemblies is a single ply roof membrane. Single ply
membranes are flexible sheets of rubber or plastic compounds that often include a reinforcing mat or fabric.
- Common types of single ply membrane material include ethylene propylene diene momer EPDM, polyvinyl
chloride PVD, thermoplastic olefin TPO. Membranes are referred to their initials.
1. SBS Polymer modified bitumen membranes commonly are installed in hot mopping’s of asphalt like BUR
systems or cold adhesive, some are self-adhesive as they contain adhesive backing.
2. APP polymer modified bitumen membranes typically are heat welded or torch applied. Consumers should be
cautioned that NRCA does not recommend torch applying a modified bitumen membrane.

1.3. Low slope metal roof assemblies

- A low slope metal roof system typically is designed as a structural roof covering. Structural metal panels can
provide a weatherproof covering in a low slope roof system.
- Commonly found in commercial roofing’s both low and steep stole.
- Divided into architectural and structural.

1.4. Spray Polyurethane Foam Roof Assemblies

- A spray polyurethane foam roof system consists of foam that is sprayed in place on a roof to create a membrane,
covered with coating.
- Commonly referred as SPF.

1.5. Steel slope roof coverings

- Water shedding coverings
- Shingles (asphalt)
- Clay or concrete tile (Cement, water and sand)
- Synthetic
- Metal

1.6. Vegetative Roof Assemblies

- Consists of vegetative and growth medium installed on top of a waterproof membrane and other necessary
components that provide insulation and other benefits. This is an increasingly popular system that is
environmentally friendly.

Low slope roofing Market Survey > Market share of each type of roof system described so far.

2. Steep Slope Roof Types

- Asphalt Shingles
- Wood shakes and shingles
- Metal panels and metal shingles
- Other roof systems, such as clay concrete, slate, and synthetics.

2.1. Asphalt Shingles

- The most common steep slope roof covering is asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles are made of asphalt over a
reinforcing mar covered with a surfacing of colored, man made ceramic granules.

2.2. Wood Shakes and Shingles

- Wood shakes and shingles are used as water shedding coverings for steep slope roof assemblies. Wood Shakes are
thick and roughhewn, made of cedar. Shingles have a smoother texture.

2.3. Metal Roof Coverings

- Other steep slope roof coverings include metal panels and metal shingles. Metal shingles often simulate wood
shakes and shingles but provide a different look.
- Manufactured at job sites or in factories.
- Various metal panel seam profiles provide different aesthetic results.
- Factory produced standing seam metal panel roof systems are used on commercial and residential buildings.
- Metal panels/Metal shingles
NRCA Course Summary

2.4. Other Steep Slope Roof Types

ROOFING 101 MODULE 2

Lesson 1 Basic Roofing Safety

Introduction

Safety is an important part of a successful roofing project and must be a shared goal by all roofing professionals involved in a
project. In this lesson you will learn about the specific responsibilities that various roofing professionals have regarding job
safety.

1. Stakeholders in Safety > Every stakeholder in a roofing project has a responsibility for safety.
2. Roofing Contractors > Roofing contractors are responsible for training their workers, ensuring they understand job
hazards and how to perform work safely. Roofing contractors typically provide safety equipment and the training
needed to use and maintain it properly.
3. Roofing workers > Must comply with company safety policies and procedures, wearing and maintaining safety
equipped as trained, exhibiting safe behavior on job sites.
4. Building Owners > Building owners should always hire roofing contractors who are conscientious about safety.
5. Insurance Carriers > Provide additional security for stakeholders through insurance products and coverage.
6. Building Occupants and Tenants > Building occupants and tenants are responsible for complying with posted
signage requirements, barricades and all rules and regulations.
Roof System Designers > Roof system designers play a role in safety by including certain kinds of details in their roof
system designs promoting safety for workers.

PPE > Personal protective equipment

NRCA Course Summary
- A hard hat may be worn to protect the workers head
- Safety glasses or a face shield may be worn to protect the workers eyes
- Gloves protect the workers hands
- Special boots may be required to protect the workers feet.
- Long sleeved shirts and pants re appropriate clothing for most jobs.

Low slope fall protection systems > Most common cause of injury or death. 6+ feet higher. Warning sign, is always used in
combination with another type of low slope fall system or safety monitor, Guard rails, Safety nets, personal fall arrest PFS
systems. Openings in a low slope roof system must be covered to prevent workers, tools and equipment from falling through the
hole.

Steep slope fall protection systems > Safety net, guard rails or catch platforms, slide guards, PFA Systems, Safety monitors.
Openings in a steep slope roof system must be covered to prevent workers, tools and equipment from falling through the hole.

Electrical safety > Electrical tools and equipment must always be, maintained in good condition, grounded, not used in wet
conditions. All electrical tools and equipment should have ground fault circuit interrupters GFCIs at the power source.

Scaffold Safety >

Crane, Conveyor and Hoist safety > often used to load and unload roofing materials and equipment, only properly trained and
competent workers should operate this type of equipment.

- A guard rails or PFA system is required when materials are being loaded near the edge of a low slope roof system.
- For steel slope roof systems additional fall protection may be required for workers receiving materials on the roof.

Ladder safety >

- 3 feet above the landing surface

- Placed on level ground away from building of ¼ working height
- A person should always face the ladder while climbing
- Always use two hands while climbing
- Never carry anything cause of loss of balance.

General Public and Occupant Safety

1. Canopy covers > Used over public walkways and building entrances
2. Secured ground set up > Warning signs
3. Environmental issues

Lesson 2 Roof Decks

The main function of a roof deck is to serve as a substrate for a roof system and to resist design loads. In this lesson, you’ll learn
more details about roof decks including design considerations.

Live loads > roof decks must withstand the following loads and forces put on them without collapsing.

- People and equipment

NRCA Course Summary
- Environmental loads

Additionally, roofs must support dead loads.

- The deck itself

- The in-place roof system
- Equipment attached above or below.

Expansion joints is sometimes used to help accommodate this differential movement. Parts of the building.

Roof deck characteristics include

- Nailable > when a roof deck accepts and holds a fastener like a nail or screw.
- Non-nailable > roof decks do not readily accept fasteners and are referred to as non nailable decks. Fully adhering.
- Combustible vs noncombustible
- Compatibility

Lesson 3 Thermal Insulation

Types of Thermal Rood Insulation > Most have facer

- Polyisocyanurate cellular glass Iso (Rigid plastic material typically sandwiched, light weight and easy to cut)
- Expanded polystyrene EPS (Extremely light weight making it very easy to handle)
- Extruded polystyrene XPS (Light weight, blue, pink, yellow or green)
- Fibrous glass and mineral fiber (yellow color, adhered with asphalt)
- Perlite (Brown color application commonly used in low slope roofs, the top is treated with a dark brown coating)
- Wood Fiberwood (Similar to perlite but feels a lot harder)
- Cellular glass (stiff black colored board)
- Mineral Fiber (Rock wool, extreme high fire resistance)
- Composite board (Two insulation type materials)

Application > There are three basic ways to install rigid board insulation, depends on the type of insulation, deck and membrane.

1. Loose laid
2. Mechanically attached > Fasteners have to be perpendicular and not too tight or loose.
3. Adhered with an adhesive

NRCA recommends the application of rigid roof board insulation to include two insulation layers, a minimum 6 inch stagger
between layers at all side and end joints, tightly fit side and end board joints with no more than ¼ inch gap and fully adhering
the top layer to a mechanically attached or adhered bottom layer.

Condensation control > Condensation is a problem that can sometimes occur in a roof system on a building located in any
climate. Occurs when moist air cools to a certain temperature and moisture droplets begin to form. It can damage other building
components including the roof deck and roof system. Wet constructions like pools showers etc. in this situation a vapor retarder,
proper amounts of insulation and adequate ventilation may be necessary to reduce the possibility of condensation.

Lesson 4 Building Codes and standards

Building codes use standards to establish specific requirements for roof assemblies and roofing materials. Importance is because
they are the law. These requirements affect how well roof assemblies stand up to wind and fire and protect the occupants.
NRCA Course Summary
Currently in the US the most popular model building codes family is the international codes (I-Codes) write model codes that are
used in the construction industry. Many standards and uniform testing procedures used to establish minimum safety and
construction requirements.

International Code Council ICC > is a membership organization dedicated to developing and maintaining a single set of model
construction codes. ICC publishes the international building code IBC and international residential code IRC. Are the most
widely used model code in the US and influence the construction of commercial and residential construction.

ASTM International > is consensus standards development organization that develops standards used in the construction
industry for materials, design and installation procedures.

American National Standards Institute (ANSI) > Oversees the development and use of many standards and guidelines that
directly affect the construction industry.

ASHRAE > Advances technology in its field to serve humanity and promote a sustainable world HVAC.

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) > A membership organization representing the civil engineering profession.
Develops and maintains standards used by professionals.

FM Global > provides commercial and industrial property insurance.

National Fire protection Agency (NFPA) > an international nonprofit organization, its mission is to reduce the worldwide
burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus codes and standards, research
training and education.

Underwriters Laboratories > is an independent testing organization that tests products for public safety. UL tests roof
assemblies to certify their fire and wind performance.

The ICC model codes are the most widely adopted model building codes in the US.

Lesson 5 Roof Systems, energy, and the environment.

Sustainable Building Design > There are many definitions for sustainability as it relates to roof systems, NRCA defines a
sustainable building as one that provides the specified building performance requirements while minimizing disturbance to and
improving the functioning of local, regional and global ecosystems.

When a building is located in an urban area or rural, the thermal insulation in a roof assembly can play a significant role in
helping the environment.

Energy efficient roof systems include

- Cool > Reflectivity and emissivity. Highly reflective roof system materials bounce
the energy of the suns ray back into the atmosphere instead of allowing it to be
absorbed into a building. The ability of a roofing material to radiate that energy
back into the atmosphere is emissivity.
- Vegetative
- Include systems such as photovoltaics
- Highly insulated
- Combination of all these

Lesson 6 Roof Systems warranties and maintenance.

Roof system design > The true performance of any rood system depends on four major factors.

- Roof system design

- Quality of materials
- Quality of application
- Maintenance
NRCA Course Summary
Even the best roofing materials will not perform as expected if a roof system is poorly designed.

Manufacturers Roof System Warranties > There are two parties who are often called upon to provide roof system warranties,
manufacturer and contractor.

Two general types > Those that are limited to cover only materials manufactured by the manufacturer and those that cover both
a manufacturers material and the workmanship of the approved contractor. Manufacturers offer long term material or system
warranties, 5, 10, 15 or 20 years. Contractors typically provide one or two year warranties.

Contractor Roof System Warranties > Roofing contractor warranties that provide roof system maintenance and roof system
maintenance agreements offer the following advantages.

- A maintenance program is proactive rather than reactive. It can help identify problems in their early stages.
- Regular maintenance can prevent a leak from occurring.
- A maintenance can prevent a leak from occurring.
- A maintenance program allows for a planned and organized approach.
- If leaks occurs response time is improved.

Approved Applicator programs > Establish a contractual agreement between a manufacturer and a roofing contractor who
installs the manufacturers products. The manufacturer will require a building owner to use an approved applicator to install or
maintain a warranted roof system from the manufacturer to provide a materials and workmanship warranty.

Low Slope System Warranties > The scope of low slope warranties varies, and one should thoroughly investigate them with an
experienced legal professional.

Four common types of low slope roof system warranties are >

1. Materials Only
2. Materials and Workmanship
3. Systems Warranty
4. Wind coverage

Monetary limitations > Some of the more common monetary based low slope woof system warranties include.

1. No dollar limits
2. Cost of installed roof and roof materials
3. Specific dollar amount

Steep slope roof system warranties >

1. Duration > How long is the warranty in effect?

2. Scope of coverage > Defective shingles only?
3. Remedies > What if any labor costs are covered?
4. Pro rating > When does pro rating begin?

Roof System Maintenance at least twice a year >

1. Where do I find the requirements for roof system maintenance? Warranty documents.
2. When is maintenance required? (severe weather events, high winds and hail, or excessive rain, ice or snow/other
construction on the building or adjacent buildings is completed/An incident of fire or vandalism)
3. Who should conduct roof system maintenance? Experienced professionals familiar with the specific roof system.
4. Does a warranty safeguard a roof system from problems? No.

ROOFING 101 MODULE 3

Lesson 1 General application of Low slope roof assemblies

NRCA Course Summary
General application of low slope roof assemblies > Following are a free general considerations that apply to the application of all
low slope roof systems.

- NRCA, recommends that all low slope roof systems be sloped to provide positive drainage. The criterion for judging
positive drainage is whether there is no ponding water on the roof system 28 hours after a rain.
- The substrate or surface over which a membrane Is being installed, should be dry, smooth, straight and free of
irregularities.
- Gaps, cracks or openings greater than ¼ inch wide will need to be filled.
- Roofing materials should arrive at a job site damage free and dry. Materials stored at a job site should be protected
from the weather. Traps or palettes.
- Roof systems react differently to heat, cold, wind and wet conditions when they are installed.

System attachment > All roof system membranes need to be properly attached or secured to prevent blow off or other damage
caused by severe weather or building movement.

1. Lose laid / PMR Membrane

2. Mechanical attached / Fasteners are used to hold the membrane in place
3. Fully adhered

Surfacing > Many low slope roof systems requite a surfacing. The primary function of surfacing materials is to protect a roof
system from damage by the suns ultraviolet rays, harsh weather, general deterioration and physical damage, as well as possibly
enhance fire resistance.

1. Aggregate surfacing being applied over a buildup roof BUR membrane

2. White acrylic surfacing being applied over a smooth polymer modified bitumen membrane
3. Elastomeric surfacing being applied over a spray polyurethane foam roof system
4. Polymer modified bitumen cap sheet factory surfaced with coated mineral granules

Lesson 2 Bituminous Roof Membranes

Bituminous roof membranes are bitumen based membranes used in multi ply configurations on low slope roof systems. The two
primary types are.

Built up roof BUR membrane > A BUR membrane is typically assembled in layers on a roof on top of the substrate . De abajo
para arriba.

1. Substrate
2. Bitumen (Asphalt, coal tar)
3. Ply Sheet (Reinforcement and are layered)
4. Bitumen
5. Ply Sheet (Different materials such as organic cellulose, fiberglass or polyester)
6. Bitumen
7. Ply Sheets (Commonly called felts)
8. Smooth Surfacing (Protects the membrane from UV degradation an general deterioration, a common type is smooth
liquid applied coating installed over a bitumen flood coat)
9. Aggregate Surfacing (Gravel embedded in hot bitumen)

Polymer modified bitumen membrane > Also made up of bitumen reinforcement and surfacing but components are assembled
in factories.

1. Include APP atactic polypropylene or SBS styrene butadiene styrene

2. Reinforcement materials include fiberglass and polyester mats
3. Common types include liquid applied coatings and colored mineral granules like metallic foils and aggregate gravel are
also used.

Hybrid Membrane Application > Sometimes BUT and polymer modified bitumen membranes are combined into the same roof
system, resulting in a hybrid membrane.

1. Underlying base piles installed using BUR methods

2. Primary polymer modified bitumen cap sheet is installed.

Bitumen Membrane Application Safety

NRCA Course Summary
1. Heat temperature safety, PPE
2. Full face mask
3. Away from windows or openings

CERTA Program > Program to train roofing workers in the safe application of torch applied roof systems. NRCA/MRCA
CERTA Certification program provides the latest best safety practices and most recent requirements.

Lessson 3 Single Ply Roof Membranes

Single Ply Membranes > Are flexible sheets used in single layer configurations on low slope roof systems. You learned in
Module 1 that there are two types of single ply roof membranes

- Thermoset membranes > The seams of thermoset single ply membranes are typically adhered using adhesives or
adhesive tape.
- Thermoplastic membranes > The seams of the/se are typically adhered by extremely hot air, sometimes in excess of
800 degrees Fahrenheit. The air is blown into the seam, melting and bonding the two sheets together.
- Reinforcement > Many single ply membranes are manufactured with polyester or glass fiber reinforcement that
strengthens each sheet so that it better resist tears and punctures. Some membranes are not reinforced.

Single ply membrane types application >

1. Ethylene propylene diene monomer EPDM.

2. Hypalon
3. PVC Polyvinyl Chroride
4. TPO Thermoplastic Olfein

Single ply membrane application safety >

- Pulling large sheets of single ply membrane while possible walking backward toward the edge of the roof
- Exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals and fumes requiring PPE
- Surfaces may be more slippery
- Increased exposures to eyes and skin by UV rays, when working with reflective single ply membranes.

Lesson 4 Structural metal roof systems

Acts as a water barrier or any penetrations, do not require layering but they to require vapor retarders or insulation. For long
structural metal panels, special details and attachment methods are commonly designed into a structural metal roof system to
accommodate movement caused by expansion and contraction.

- Eave and ridge details and clip attachment need to allow for a panel’s movement.
- These details and attachment methods are designed specifically for a building and type of panel.
- Expansion clips are used to accommodate movement, they secure a metal panel to a framing member in a way that
holds the metal panel in place yet allows the panel to expand and contract.
- Fixed clips are not intended to accommodate large amounts of panel movement, the appropriate attachment method and
construction details are based on geographic issues as well as designer, manufacturer and contractor input.

Structural metal panel = Structural deck

- Insulation cannot be installed above the deck as it foremost traditional low slope roof systems. Instead it is installed
close to or directly in contact with the underside of the metal panel.

Metal Roof system safety > Slippery, Sharp edges, gloves, Eye protection.

Lesson 5 Spray polyurethane Foam Roof Systems SPF

The foam material of an SPF roof system is made from two components that are mixed together in a stray gun when it is applied
to the roof. SPF mixture sets un less than 1 min.

- The part A component is isocyanate

- The part B component is polyol
NRCA Course Summary
Once the components are mixed the mixture expands 20 to 30 times its liquid volume to create relatively dense closed cell plastic
foam insulation.

The quality of the applied foam is affected by >

1. The skill of the applicator

2. The operation of the spray equipment
3. Weather conditions

High relative humidity, wind and or extreme air temperatures may cause the foam mixture to expand too slowly too quickly or
unevenly and result in a poor application. The minimum thickness is approximately 1 inch. SPF can be applied in multiple layers
called lifts dem ½ to 1 inch in thickness.

Unprotected SPF can be damaged by ultraviolet rays and therefore should be covered with a protective coating as soon as
possible after application. SPF roof systems also use metal components and accessories similar to other traditional roof systems.

The six surface textures.

1. Smooth > Protective surface coatings can be applied.

2. Orange peel > Protective surface coatings can be applied.
3. Coarse orange peel > Protective surface coatings can be applied.
4. Verge of Popcorn > Protective surface coatings can be applied but it considered undesirable to do so because such
surface will require much more coating material.
5. Popcorn > Protective surface coatings should not be applied.
6. Treebark > Protective surface coatings should not be applied.

Surfacing > Coatings are typically applied in two coats a base coat and a finish coat. There are several types of elastomeric
coatings.

- Actrylic
- Silicone
- Polyurethane

Safety in SPF Roofing

1. Fitting respirators classified for this type of exposure.

2. Wear appropriates rated goggles to protect face and skin.
3. Full protective clothing to reduce their exposure risk to these components.
4. Propper grounding of the spray equipment.
5. Remove nearby items.

Lesson 6 Low slope Roof System Maintenance

Maintenance Inspection Items > should always include a survey of a roofs entire field and all flashings.

1. Obstructed Drainage
2. Debris Accumulation
3. Physical Damage (By Foot traffic, Impact by foreign objects, severe weather suck as high winds, hail, ice or heavy rain.

Maintenance Issues

1. One maintenance issue with built up BUR systems include surfacing displacement.
2. Maintenance activities such as HVAC servicing.
3. Polymer modified bitumen roof system maintenance issues include open lap and seams.
4. Worn Surfacing
5. Blisters
6. Displaced ballast
7. Open seams
8. Fasteners that are backing out

Structural Metal Panel Roof System Maintenance Issues > Have unique conditions that require careful inspection.
NRCA Course Summary
1. Open seams
2. Debris accumulation
3. Fastener back out

SPF Roof System Maintenance Issues > SPF application is sensitive and impact damage is a potential problem.

1. Work platform
2. Time deterioration
3. Split

ROOFING 101 MODULE 4

Lesson 1 Steep slope Roof Assemblies

The common components to a steep slope roof assembly are.

1. Ventilation deck
2. Underlayment
3. Water shedding covering
4. Insulation is most commonly found in the attic of a steep slope roof assembly.

Steep slope Roof System Application Terms

1. Exposure > The amount of roofing material left exposed to the weather after steep slope roof system installation is
complete.
2. Overlap > Materials are typically installed from eave to ridge, and the area where materials lap over each other as their
horizontal edges is called overlap. Steep slope materials are overlapped in suck way that water flows over and not
against horizontal edges.
3. Headlap > Refers to the distance of overlap measured from the uppermost ply or course to the point where it laps over
the undermost ply or course.
4. Offset > The individual pieces are offset so the ends are staggered. This prevents water from entering the roof system
through joints that are aligned.
5. Sidelap and But Joints > Some steep slope materials lap over each other at the sides or edges. Materials may overlap,
butt against each other with no overlap or may be folded over each other multiple times in complex configurations.

Attachment methods

1. Common to low slope roof systems

2. Direct nailing
3. Wire attachment
4. Clip attachment
5. Tile set in foam or mortar
6. Lug hung

Valleys > A unique application consideration with steep slope roof system design is how materials are installed at valleys

- Open valleys
- Closed cut valley
- Woven valley

Lesson 2 Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt Shingles > Are the first type of water shedding coverings that will be discussed. As you learned in Module 1, asphalt
shingles are the most common steep slope roof covering.

- Reinforcing Mat > All asphalt shingles use fiberglass reinforcement mats. Provide tear and puncture resistance and a
foundation for holding the coating asphalt.
- Coating Asphalt > An asphalt coating is used to thoroughly coat the reinforcing mat. Provide the water shedding
component.
- Ceramic granule surfacing > Made in many colors to provide a variety of color options for asphalt shingles. Protect
the coating asphalt and reinforcing mat from damage caused by the sunset UV rays.
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- Considerations > There are several significant considerations to consider when selecting asphalt shingles. Design
requirements like wind resistance, algae resistance and impact resistance.

Asphalt Shingle Styles

1. Three-tab shingles typically 36 inches in length by 12 inches wide. A 12-inch-wide shingle is commonly overlapped 7
inches leaving the lower 5 inches exposed to the weather. The small slot between each tab called tab cutout creates the
appearance of three individual pieces.
2. Laminated shingles, architectural o dimensional. Made by laminating or bonding two or more layers of materials of
uniquely cut patterns and shapes.
3. Individual shingles less common asphalt shingle style are specialty designer shingles.

Asphalt shingles are installed overlapped and fastened. ¼ to ¾ of an inch overlapped. Safety application includes NOT carrying
shingles through a ladder, fall protection should be used. Pneumatic nail guns used to install asphalt shingles. Wrappers from
shingle bundles are a hazard and should be disposed of after they are opened.

Module 3 Architectural Metal Panel Roof Systems

Architectural metal roods are water shedding, typically requires a metal deck, asphalt underlayment and sometimes, slip shed.
Slope needs to be greater than 3.12. Some are steep and some are low slopes.

Types of Metal Panel Roof Systems

1. Metal Shingle roof – installed as individual pieces.

2. Metal panel roof – Flat panels.
3. Batten seam
4. Bermuda style, which are horizontal panels with laps and interlocking seams.
5. Oil canning, with light gauge sheet metal

Metals expand and contract, insulation is used to prevent condensation. Types of insulation include.

1. Light
2. Rigid board

Safety on metal roofing.

- Slippery
- Sharp edges need PPE
- UV resistant eyewear
- Special PFA anchor devices
- PFA System

Nails > Used for all styles of asphalt shingles, made of galvanized steel.

Head > Flat, Usually about 3/8 to 7/16 in diameter. Lays Flats on a shingle surface.

Shanks > About 1/8 thick. Thickness gives it effective gripping power in a wood roof deck.

Edge Flashings
NRCA Course Summary

Course = row of shingles

Starter course, the purpose of a starter course is to provide the proper double thickness of shingles. The second purpose for the
starter strip is to provide a proper surface for the first course od shingles to adhere to.

Shingle offset varies depending on the specific product and intended finished appearance. Always follow the manufacturers
recommendations.

Installing a Valley > Two types, open valley, closed cut valley.

Lesson 4 Wood shakes and wood shingles

- Are also used as water shedding coverings.

- Wood shakes and wood shingles are highly combustible so special fire retardants may be factory applied to make them
less likely to burn.
- Its important for woof shakes and wood shingles to be able to dry adequately. Wet conditions promote fungal growth
and decay of wood shakes and shingles. Preservative treatments are used to reduce the possibility of decay and
decomposition.
- Bundles may display a manufacturers label that identifies the type and grade of wood shakes and wood shingles and
what if any treatments have been factory applied. Certified products as CSSB.

Wood Shakes
NRCA Course Summary
1. Medium of heavy shakes > Wood shakes are withering
medium shakes which measure ½ inch to ¾ inch at their
thickest butt edge or heavy shakes which measure 2/4 inches
to 1 ½ inches at their butt edge.
2. Hand split and respawn shakes > Have split faces and
sawn backs. The logs are first cut into desired length
sections.
3. Taper split shakes > These shakes are produced by hand.
4. Straight split shakes > Are produced in the same manner as
taper split shakes but because they are split from the same
end of the block the shakes acquire the same thickens through their length.
5. Taper sawn shakes > Sawn on both sides

Wood Shake and wood shingle application basics > are attached using nails, each individual piece of wood shake or wood
shingle requires two properly placed nails. Wood shakes usually require strips of underlayment installed between each horizontal
course. Provides secondary water shedding capabilities for wood shingle applications. Ventilation of wood shakes and wood
shingles aids drying to promote durability. They can be installed in varying patterns for aesthetic reasons. For instance, varying
the bottom edges of each horizontal course provides a unique layout and installing multiple layers of shakes and shingles can
create interesting patterns.

Wood Shake and Wood Shingle Application Safety

1. Cutting wood shakes and shingles > Wood shakes and wood shingles may be cut during application with a powered
circular saw. Cutting on sloped surfaces will increase injury. Best safety work practices may include setting up a level
work platform for sawing operations.
2. Slippery conditions > Wood shakes and wood shingles and other work surfaces become slippery from sawdust after
cutting operations, when wet, fungus or moss occurs.
3. Nail stripper use > Hold nails in their mouths.

Lesson 5 Additional Steep slope rood systems

1. Clay and concrete tiles, popular in warm climates and are available in different colors and textures.
2. Slate, which is a natural rock.
3. Synthetic tile and shingles.

Clay and concrete tiles >

- Clay and concrete tiles > Are made of cement, sand or clay mixtures pressed and formed into shapes. Clay tiles are backed at high
temperatures and concrete tiles are cured. Coloring pigments can be added to clay and concrete tile mixtures to produce a wide variety
of colors and finishes. Some tiles are treated with a ceramic glaze that results in a shiny colorful surface.
- Clay S tile
- Clay interlocking tile
- Roman tile shown here are heavier than most other steep slope coverings.

Clay and concrete tile application basics

NRCA Course Summary
DURING APPLICATION > High durable underlayment > General Tile Attachment > Tile Accessories

AFTER APPLICATION > Installation Equipment

Clay and concrete tile application safety

1. Handling and Loading (Clay and concrete tiles are much heavier than many other steep slope coverings, the additional weight of tile
makes it more challenging to carry, load and stack on a steep slope roof system. Repeated lifting of this heavy weight can strain
workers backs, loading tile in smaller stacks close together on a roof reduces the distance and frequency they need to be moved for
installation)
2. Fall Protection (OSHA has taken into consideration the unique challenges of loading and installing tile, OSHA regulations allow for
alternative fall protection practices.)
3. Respiratory Protection (Some material cutting generally is necessary on every tile job. Cutting of some clay or concrete tile
generates heavy clouds of dust that may cause respiratory or other health problems.)

Slate roof systems have been used as steep slope roof systems of exceptional durability and longevity for several hundred years. Slate provides a
unique classic appearance and is often used on high profile historic buildings. But it is used for residential applications. Slate is a natural rock
mined from the earth. The rock is cut into specific shapes suitable for roof system application. Similar to clay and concrete tile, slate is a heavy
material that will require structural support designed to carry the heavy load.

Types include > Green/Gray color, Purple, Reed, Black. Hardness varies.

Application Basics >

1. Each piece is secured using corrosion resistant fasteners including copper and stainless-steel nails, and typically requires a minimum
of two nails. Slate is hung, not fastened. Slate nails should be driven so that they just touch the surface of the slate, so the slate
essentially hangs on the nail.
2. Holes are commonly pre punched in each piece of slate, but holes can be punched in the field.
3. Special slaters hammers are used to punch holes and a slaters stake is used to cut and shape individual pieces.

Application Safety >

- Standard fall protection and other safety measures should be followed.

- The additional weight of slate makes it difficult to carry load and stack.
- An additional hazard is small chips of slate that can become airborne and cause eye injuries when slate is cut.

Cutting synthetic products is typically done with circular saws, which can produce small airborne particles that should not be inhaled. An
appropriate respirator should be worn when cutting these materials. Other proper PPE such as eye protection, should also be worn.

Lesson 6 Steep slope roof system maintenance

1. Obstructed drainage and debris accumulation, shown here are two common maintenance issues
2. Fungus, lichen or moss growth
3. Physical damage can be caused by foot traffic, structural movement, impact by foreign objects and severe weather such as high winds,
hail and ice.
4. Missing of broken pieces
5. Generally poor condition of the covering or flashing
NRCA Course Summary
Asphalt Shingle Roof System Maintenance > Its normal for excess surface granules to wash down a roof and collect in a gutter with newly
installed asphalt shingles. As they age, some granules may become loose and expose the asphalt coating. Over time improperly driven nails or
nails that have backed out can create holes and possible leakage.

Wood shake and wood shingle maintenance > Some wood shakes or wood shingles can curl, leaving the underlying course exposed to the
weather. Occasionally wood shakes or shingles treated with fire retardants preservative treatments or stained for enhanced color may require
cleaning and application of a restorative treatment.

Architectural Metal Panel Roof System Maintenance

- Expansion and Contraction

- Finish
- Modifications or Penetrations added

Slate, Clay and Concrete Tile Maintenance > Metal flashings can become loose or wear out. Trim accessory pieces may become dislodged,
leaving areas of the roof vulnerable to weather. Localized deterioration of underlayment sometimes occurs and may require replacement to
maintain the water shedding nature of the system. Damage may occur over time.

ROOFING 101 MODULE 5

Lesson 1 General Flashing Concepts
- Field is the main open part of a roof.
- Flashing is used to weatherproof or seal a roof system at any area where the field is interrupted, such as a chimney or vent pipe, or
where the field terminates at walls and edges.

Roof flashings must withstand the forces put on a roof system, including

- Differential movement between building components

- High winds battering against a leading edge of a roof system

Basic Flashing Design Concepts

1. Every flashing detail requires two basic components, base flashing and counter flashing.
2. A steep slope counter flashing is shown here.
3. Most flashings require the use of an additional component called counter flashings, over the top edge, provide additional
weatherproofing by covering the top edge of a base flashing, counter flashings are typically made of metal and are attached
independent of flashing.
4. A base flashing is one where the termination occurs at or near horizontal plane or parallel to a roof systems surface. A low slope base
flashing is shown here.

NRCA publishes construction details that represent best practices for flashing common low slope and steep slope roof systems.

Safety Includes

- Fall protection
- PPE (Gloves, protective eyewear and clothing, respirator)
NRCA Course Summary

The surface to which a flashing is going to be attached should.

- Be solid and sound

- Be free of dirt, dust and debris
- Be dry
- Generally, have no haps or openings greater than ¼ of an inch.

Flashing height > NRCA recommends a minimum base flashing height that is based on a roof system and type of flashing.

Penetration spacing >

Flashing attachment can be fastened or adhered.

Flashing maintenance

1. Loose Attachment 1 / wind

2. Loose Attachment 2/ slipping
3. Open Seams
4. Loose, missing or deteriorating sealant
5. Loose or missing fasteners or accessories
6. Physical damage

Lesson 4 Low slope flashing construction and application

- Every place where a roof membrane is penetrated.
- Can trips
NRCA Course Summary
- Made of perlite, roodfire, mineral oil,

Though they may use the same materials all roof flashing details need to address the need for base flashing and counter flashing components.
Some common roof flashing detail examples are.

1. Roof to wall transitions

2. Eaves
3. Skylight and hatch curbs
4. Mechanical equipment curbs
5. Expansion joints
6. Pipe penetrations
7. Roof drains
8. Scuppers
9. Penetration pockets

You should also be aware that flashing requirements for metal panel roof systems may be specialized and unique to the specific roof system.
Metal panel roof system flashings may require customer shop fabrication. Also spray polyurethane foam roof system flashings are sprayed in
place and to not require additional materials.

Low slope roof to wall flashing Components

Wall mounted countered attachment

Wall mounted countered sealant

Wall mounted countered flashing

Flashing sheet top edge seal

Flashing sheet top edge

Backer sheet

Flashing cap sheet

Cant perlite strip

Field membrane built up sheet panels

insulation

Low slope Roof system penetration flashing components

1. Insulation
2. Field membrane
3. Backer sheet
4. Sealant
5. Striping sheet
6. Formed pipe flashing
NRCA Course Summary

Lesson 3 Steep slope Flashing Construction and application

1. Plate needs to be 4 inches
2. Fasten the plate to the roof
3. Install the first shingle
4. Overlap the second one by at least 2 inches
5. And so on.
6. Install the counter flashing

For the front chimney

1. Install 4 inches and 6 inches vertical
2. Step up the side pieces.
3. Press and inject the sealant.

There are many components used in the construction of base flashings for steep slope
applications. This example shows a pipe penetration flashing that includes a flanged metal sleeve installed with asphalt shingles. Other slope
coverings such as tile or wood shales may not use all these components or may include additional components not shown here.

1. Asphalt shingles
2. Pipe flashing with integral flange

Common Locations for steep slope base flashings

Some common flashing areas using steep slope base flashings include

- Walls
- Chimneys
- Equipment mounting curbs, such as skylights and exhaust vents.

Flashing details for some tile roof systems and for most metal panel roof systems are specialized and unique to each system with many flashings
requiring custom fabrication. Metal roof system. Tile roof system.

Steep slope counter flashing components and terms

There are many components used in the construction of counter flashings for steep slope applications. This example shows flashing asphalt
shingles where they adjoin a vertical wall. Notice the wall sliding serves as the counter flashing over the top edge of the step flashing. Other steep
slope coverings such as tile or wood shake may not use all these components or may include additional components not shown here.

1. Underlayment
2. Wall cladding serving as counter flashing
3. Step flashing
4. Water resistive barrier
5. Water shedding roof covering

Common locations for steep slope counter flashings

NRCA Course Summary
- Eave edges
- Gutter edges
- Rake edges
- Vent pipes
- Attic Vents

Lesson 4 Flashing Accessories.

Accessories are made of many types of materials like skylights, roof hatches, roof vents and gutters.

Low slope roof system accessories.

1. Low slope roof system accessories.

2. Roof vents, some vents are called static because they do not have any moving parts. Allow for the flow of air from the outside to the
interior of a building or attic space. Some are called mechanical because they include an electric powered fan. Roof vents may be
flashed with base of counter flashings depending on the vent style and construction.
3. Skylights function as a window through a roof system. Potential fall hazard.
4. Roofing contractors often install roof access hatches during new roof system construction. Access hatches may have built in counter
flashing systems.
5. Additional roof system accessories include items like copings and expansion joint covers. Copings function as weather protection for
the top of a wall. Copings require weaterproof seams and joints. Depending on the height of the wall and flashing, copings may be
used as counter flashing for the roof system flashing.
6. Expansion joints and curbs are designed into a roof system to accommodate expected building movement.
7. It is common for roofing contractors to install gutters during a roof system application.

Steep slope accessories

1. Skylight which functions as a window through a roof system.

2. Gutters and downspouts are commonly installed by a roofing contractor.
3. Ventilation attic, remove the excess heat and moisture from the attic.
4. Ridge vents, ventilating the attic area, preferred over static vents.
NRCA Course Summary

WOOD DECKS
Wood Decks Types

- Wood Sheathing
- Dimensional Lumber

Wood panel sheathing

- Comes in variety of thicknesses (1/2 -1/4 inches).

- Commonly 4 foot by 8 foot.
- Can be sawn, drilled, cut, nailed, glued, screwed, and painted.

Materials come in Plywood and OSB Oriented-strand board. OSB sheathing that was exposed swells and Plywood does not. Both
products are rated for rood decks, they use only APA rated sheathing.

Sheathing Installation is installed across trusses. NRCA recommends using wood roof sheathing thicknesses that exceed the
minimum code requirements.

Dimensional Lumber Boards >

- Can be sawn, drilled, nailed, glued, screwed, and painted.

- Flammable.
- Solid Woof
- Thickness> 2 or less
- Length 20 or more
- Width 12 or less

Dimensional Lumber Planks >

- A plank is lumber that is 2 inches thick or greater.

Rafters and trusses form the structure thar holds the roof. Constructed and installed by builders.

Nails > Each penny increases in length up to the 10-penny nail. There is no 11-penny nail. Nails are not rechargeable.

- 2 penny nail (2d) = 1 ‘’ long

- 12 penny nail (12d) = 3 ¼ ‘’ long
- 16 penny nail (16d) = 3 ½ ‘’ long

16 penny sinker = 16 penny nail

Fasteners > Carpenters use two different nails on roof decks

NRCA Course Summary
- For rafters and trusses, use a 16d sinker. Dimensional lumber sheathing requires 16d or greater sinkers.
- For roof decks use an 8d sinker.

Our responsibility is to examine the roof deck condition. Cover, mark, and report holes. Replace and report wet or rotted
sheathing.

Substrate > Is the term for roof surface onto which you will install a new roof covering. Clean, dry and in good condition.

Steep slope Underlayment

The underlayment also called felt is the first layer of weatherproofing installed on a steep slop roof deck.

- Asphalt saturated felt

- Covers 100 percent of the roof surface
- Applied directly to the roof deck
- 100 sq. ft. = a square
- 400 sq. ft = 4 squares

Installing Underlayment

1. Install the largest pieces you can safely handle

2. Start at the bottom and roll horizontally and upwards from the eaves
3. Overlap rows at least 2.
4. Overlap ends at least 4.
5. Attach with roofing nails.

Best practice > Install the roof covering over the underlayment each day,

- Snow collects on a roof.

- Snow melts.
- Water runs down the slope.
- Water freezes near the roof edge.
- Ice dam forms.

Ice and water protection membranes > Installed on the valleys, chimneys, skylight and eaves,

Installation > Lay out same way as standard underlayment. Overlap courses in shingle fashion.

Features > Self adhering, Installed directly on roof deck, targeted for ice dam prone areas, shingle fashion installation, Integrated
with gutter flashing, a minimum od 24 inches inside exterior wall line and most are designed to seal around nails.