Technical Bulletins

These bulletins offer concise, easy-to-understand information on common maintenance, repair, installation and weather-related topics affecting both residential and commercial roofs. Note: These documents and their related diagrams are copywritten by ARMA and are for the use of individual visitors to this site. They are not for duplication, distribution or inclusion into other texts without the express written consent of ARMA. Single copies of all ARMA technical bulletins can be downloaded directly by clicking on the title of the Technical Bulletin you need.

Residential Roofing

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Algae Discoloration of Roofs

Explains the origin and effects of algae growth on roofing. Suggests use of cleaning techniques for temporary lightening.

Photovoltaic Systems and Asphalt Shingle Roofs
The 2010 Florida Building Code, Residential and Asphalt Shingle Wind Classifications
The 2010 Florida Building Code, Building and Asphalt Shingle Wind Classifications
Field Applied Coating of Installed Asphalt Shingles

This document cautions the use of a field applied coating on asphalt shingles.

Self-Adhering Underlayment Removal Prior to Steep Slope Re-Roofing

This document discussed the best practices for removing self adhering underlayment when re-roofing a steep-sloped roof.

Water Soluble Residue Found on Asphalt Roofing Products (“Tobacco-Juicing”)
Installation of Self-Adhering Membranes In Steep Slope Roofing
Cold Weather Recommendations for Applications of Asphalt Roofing Shingles

Contains criteria for storage, handling, application and safety in the shingle application process.

Hot Weather Recommendations for Storage and Application of Asphalt Roofing Shingles

Contains criteria for storage, handling, application and safety in the shingle application process.

When Does a Shingle Comply with ASTM D3462?

Shingles that are in conformance with ASTM D3462 at the time of manufacture have a proven track record of performance, meeting and exceeding customer expectations.

Sampling Shingles For ASTM Testing

Understanding Why Proper Sampling Provides Credible Results

Color Shading of Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Outline of the primary and secondary causes of color shading. Suggests ways to avoid this purely aesthetic problem.

Re-roofing with Metric Shingles

Application guidelines for metric asphalt shingles using either the nesting or bridging method.

Plain Facts About Buckled Shingles

Reviews the causes, prevention and correction of buckled shingles.

Ventilation and Moisture Control for Residential Roofing

Explains why ventilation should be incorporated into roof design.

Application of Asphalt Shingles to Decks Installed over Insulation or Radiant Barriers

Highlights why most manufacturers do not recommend the application of shingles over insulation, insulated decks, or radiant barriers and suggests ventilation methods necessary if this type of specification is called for.

Recommendations for Application of Asphalt Shingles on Steep Slopes and Mansard Construction

Defines the maximum slope for normal shingle application and suggests different installation methods for slopes beyond that maximum.

Preventing Damage from Ice Dams

Installation procedures for eaves flashing over low and steep sloped roofs. Includes illustrations.

Use of Asphalt Shingle Underlayment

Gives important reasons for installing asphalt-saturated felt underlayment over wood decks prior to shingle application.

Nail Application of Asphalt Strip Shingles for New and Recover Roofing

Criteria for proper placement and application of roofing nails.

Re-roofing: Tear Off vs. Re-Cover

Tips on deciding whether or not it is necessary to tear off existing shingles when reroofing.

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Modified Bitumen Roofing

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Photovoltaic Systems and Low-slope Commercial Roofs Roofing Membranes

Increasingly, roofs are being used as more than the waterproofing element of the building envelope. The push toward sustainable building practices has led design professionals to look at roofs as opportune space for renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic (PV) systems.

Self-Adhesive Modified Bituminous Roofing Membranes

Modified bituminous roof membranes continue to be popular option for low-sloped roofs due to their proven performance. Historically these products have been torch-applied, mop-applied using hot asphalt (SBS only), or applied with solvent-based adhesives.

Water Soluble Residue from Asphalt Roofing Products ("Tobacco Juicing")

Describes origin of tobacco juicing and the effects this residue may have on modified bitumen roofs. Provides ways to minimize/eliminate residue runoff.

Cold Weather Application Recommendations for Modified Bitumen Roofing

Overview of proper storage, handling and application methods in cold temperatures. Contains information for both torch-applied and hot asphalt-applied products.

The Effects of Greases, Oils and Chemicals on Modified Bitumen Sheet Materials

Breaks special contaminants into three categories: oils/greases, bacteria/fungi and other chemicals. Adverse effects are highlighted for each category. Includes methods for preventing roof contaminants.

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Built Up Roofing

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Recommendations Regarding Built-Up Roofing Asphalt

Contains information on grade I-IV asphalt as well as suggestions for application and storage.

Decking Recommedations for Built-Up Roofing and Modified Bitumen Membranes

General specification and application guidelines for various commercial roofing decks.

Cold Weather Recommendations for Built-Up Roofing

Contains criteria for storage, handling, application and safety in the BUR process.

The Effects of Ponding Water

Overview of the causes and detrimental effects ponding water may have on asphalt roofing systems.

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