 |
|
        |
|
   |
|
No. 5 ASPHALT SHINGLES TEST STANDARDS
Asphalt roofing shingles sold in Canada may have various agency conformances shown in short form on the bundle packaging. Those most commonly found are described briefly below to help the consumer understand their meaning and assist him in purchasing the product best suited to his needs. More information can be obtained by contacting the manufacturers directly. CSA A123.1-M: this indicates that the shingles are produced in accordance with CANADIAN STANDARDS ASSOCIATION standard A123.1-M "Asphalt Shingles Surfaced with Mineral Granules". Shingles meeting this specification are the standard organic felt-based shingles commonly used in Canada. Compliance is ensured by the manufacturer. CSA A123.5-M: similar to the above, this references the CANADIAN STANDARDS ASSOCIATION specification for "Asphalt Shingles Made with Glass Felt and Surfaced with Mineral Granules". Shingles meeting this specification are the standard glass fibre mat shingles used in Canada. Compliance is ensured by the manufacturer. ULC S-107: this is an UNDERWRITERS' LABORATORIES OF CANADA test method for "Fire Tests of Roof Coverings". Shingles labelled with this have been tested to establish their degree of fire resistance, and will typically have a "Class C" or "Class A" rating. Class C is suitable for residential and most commercial roof covers; but Class A may be required on public use buildings such as hospital and schools. ASTM E 108: this is the AMERICAN SOCIETY FOR TESTING AND MATERIALS test method for "Fire Tests of Roof Coverings". It is essentially identical to the ULC S-107 test. Typically the E-108 tests are performed by qualified third party test laboratories such as Factory Mutual Research Corporation, who also perform periodic in-plant manufacturing audits. As with S-107, Class A or Class C ratings may be obtained. ASTM D 3161: this test outlines a test method to establish the "Wind Resistance of Asphalt Shingles". Shingles bearing this designation have been tested at wind speeds up to 60 mph. It should be noted that these tests are carried out on fully sealed shingles, in a carefully controlled laboratory environment. In actual service, there are many variables which affect shingle wind resistance, such as roof design, application procedures, gust effects, and temperature. It is important for anyone who plans to use or purchase asphalt shingles to ensure that the materials meet the desired standard. The fact that a product is advertised locally is not a guarantee that it satisfies an appropriate CANADIAN standard.
Additional copies, in English and French, can be obtained by forwarding your request to CASMA via e-mail. To send us your request, click here. |
|
For more information on this subject or other asphalt shingle technical issues, you may contact CASMA by e-mail at casma@casma.ca, or visit our website: www.casma.ca. The information contained in this bulletin is for general education and is not intended to replace advice from a qualified contractor or direction on usage/installation from the manufacturer. Consumers should be aware of the safety hazards associated with work on roofs and, before doing so themselves, should consider following CASMA’s advice of using qualified contractors. This bulletin may be reproduced with permission on condition that it be reproduced in whole, unedited, with attribution of copyright to CASMA. |
© 2008, Canadian Asphalt Shingle Manufacturers' Association
Next Bulletin:
Previous Bulletin:
