Asphalt shingle manufacturers and the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) are beginning to introduce a new methodology for testing and reporting the wind resistances of asphalt shingles. Following is a brief overview of this new methodology and how designers and contractors can use it.
Unlike membrane-type roof systems (built-up, single-plies), which provide for continuous air barriers, asphalt shingle roof systems are recognized to be air-permeable. As a result, conventional wind-test methods do not yield representative results when used on asphalt shingle roof systems.
Since the early 1990s, asphalt shingle manufacturers and ARMA have conducted extensive research into better quantifying the wind resistances of asphalt shingle products. The research culminated in the development of two new test methods: UL 2390, "Test method for wind resistance of asphalt shingles with sealed tabs," and ASTM D6381, "Standard Test Method for Measurement for Asphalt Shingle Tab Mechanical Uplift Resistance."