Low-Slope Commercial Roofing

Roof Cover Boards Provide Outstanding Performance
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Advertorial course provided by USG
Robert C. Grupe, CSI, Director, Architectural and Technical Solutions, USG C

Specifying Cover Boards

In specifying cover boards, it is important to understand that the cover board is part of a total system. When a fire or wind uplift resistance rating is required, it is the total system, or assembly, that carries the rating. Each part of the system must be a tested component within the assembly. In most cases, a wide variety of cover boards has been tested and approved with the desired roofing system.

Specifiers should carefully review the specific project requirements and choose a cover board that meets the project criteria. Wind, fire, traffic, hail and impact resistance should all be considered when choosing a board. The environment in which the board will be placed is also a critical factor.

If some level of moisture can reasonably be anticipated, the design should include a means for fast moisture egress from the assembly, and the cover board should be capable of performing in this less-than-ideal environment. The wrong choice of cover board material could result in collapse and degradation, resulting in a failed roofing assembly.

Specifiers should also make certain that all components within the roof assembly are compatible with one another. Manufacturers of all the roof components should be contacted and directed to provide a letter stating that adjoining components are compatible and will remain compatible throughout the anticipated service life of the roof assembly.

Site substitutions are common as a result of availability, contractor preference or price. A substitution may result in the application of non-compatible materials or assemblies that do not provide the intended performance. Substitution may result in an assembly that does not carry the intended wind or fire rating. All substitutions should be reviewed carefully and given the same care and attention that were provided in the original choice(s).

 

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Originally published in Architectural Record.
Originally published in September 2005

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