To assist in the selection of optimum base-sheet roofing materials for multi-ply roofing, ASTM D 6509, Standard Specification for Atactic Polypropylene Modified Bituminous Base Sheet Materials Using Glass Fiber Reinforcements has been developed by a Felts and Fabrics D08.04 Subcommittee task group within Committee D08 on Roofing, Waterproofing and Bituminous Materials.

The task group of engineers, chemists, statisticians, architects, and contractors based D 6509 on the products of four manufacturers used in the construction of commercial/industrial roofing. “The specification was developed to provide a product standard by which various base sheet materials can be compared,” says Task Group Chairman Carter Slusher, asphalt roofing systems manager, Firestone Building Products, Carmel, Ind. “The end result is that an individual who wants to construct a commercial/industrial roof can use the standard as a tool to obtain the best roof for his building.”

“The primary industries which will benefit from this standard are facets of the construction industry,” notes Slusher. “This broad category includes U.S. government contracting agencies, school boards, state and local governments—in essence building owners who want a quality roof constructed using the best available materials, architects and specifiers, installer/contractor agencies, and roofing manufacturers.”

Roofing manufacturers rely on ASTM standards as production targets, according to Slusher: “ASTM product standards often provide the only definitive tool by which products can be compared.”

For further technical information, contact Carter Slusher, Firestone Building Products, 525 Congressional Blvd., Carmel, IN 46032-5607 (317/ 575-7117; fax: 317/575-7227). Committee D08 meets Dec. 3-6 in Orlando, Fla. For meeting or membership details, contact Staff Manager Pat Picariello, ASTM (610/832-9720). //

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