Concrete and Clay Roof Tile Adhesives Adrian Robledo, Director of Sales, Steep-Slope, ICP Building Solutions Group From South Florida to the Panhandle and beyond, Floridians are choosing concrete and clay roof tile as more than just an attractive addition to a home’s exterior aesthetic. Thanks to its durability, beauty and longevity, tile roofing is a preferred solution for contractors, builders, architects, consultants and homeowners. Adhesives tailored to challenging environments like those in Florida, enhance the performance of tile roofing by offering exceptional wind uplift resistance, which in some cases and depending on various factors, could withstand up to Category 5 hurricanes, (depending on location, height and pitch of the roof and type of adhesive used). Adhering to tile roof best practices makes all the difference. Polyurethane foam adhesive products for concrete and clay roof tiles have been around for more than 30 years and adhere each individual tile in place to provide superior holding power compared to mortar, screws, nails or wire tie systems. In most cases, these adhesive solutions also out-perform other fastening systems in reliability and ease of application. For a home sized 2,500-3,000 square feet, polyurethane foam adhesive can virtually eliminate – depending on the roof pitch – 4,000 to 8,000 mechanical fasteners that could compromise the waterproofing membrane or roof deck, resulting in fewer long-term maintenance issues, increased strength and enhanced longevity of the roof. In addition, a two-component large-patty adhesive installation can add up to 80 percent additional break strength to the tile – important for future repairs, pressure cleanings or walk paths for solar-mounted systems. Without question, the use of adhesives to secure tile roofing offers many benefits. Following industry best practices to select and apply the right adhesive product for the job – including verifying code
requirements and seeking manufacturer installation instructions – ensures safe and effective installation and optimum performance.
Consult the Manufacturer for Guidance
Contractors should look to adhesive manufacturers for guidance on the most effective use of adhesives when installing concrete and clay roof tile. Manufacturers can provide access to valuable product-related expertise and technical support, as well as guidelines for safety protocols while using their products. Roof tile adhesive products come in single-component and two-component product offerings: ■ Single-component kits, in which all components are combined and the adhesive moisture cures upon dispensing. ■ Two-component kits, in which the A-side chemical (isocyanate) is kept separate from the B-side chemical (polyol) and the reaction begins once the two components are mixed together. With job-specific information, adhesive manufacturers can verify the selected product and advise contractors and installers on the product and application method best suited for that specific tile roofing project. Adhesive manufacturers may offer this consultation for little or no cost, though the peace of mind it provides is priceless.
Invest Time in Training and Certification
Many adhesive manufacturers offer training for new installers and jobsite visits to ensure projects go smoothly. Training can include a written test and hands-on guidance to secure proper certifications and qualified applicator cards, which is code mandated for each individual installer. Highlights of this type of training often include safety. For crews – contractors working on tile roof installations should wear: ■ Approved safety glasses or goggles ■ Long-sleeved shirts or covered-up arm sleeves ■ Nitrile gloves ■ Safety harnesses or other necessary fall-arrest system gear.
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FLORIDA ROOFING | April 2023