Proper material temperatures are imperative to ensure that adhesive products deliver the highest level of performance. When applying adhesive products below the manufacturer’s recommended application temperatures, application speed and performance can be drastically affected. To help address material temperature issues, Carlisle has recently announced the availability of heated blankets and temperature sensing nozzle technology. Flexible FAST reaches its maximum performance when the material temperature at the time of installation is 70°F or rising. When temperatures fall below 70°F, urethane adhesives can experience mixture ratio issues that could create application issues. To help address material temperatures during winter applications, the use of hot boxes and power blankets are recommended to ensure the adhesive remains at 70°F or above at the time of application. For more information regarding heated blankets, click here or visit the website for one of Carlisle equipment partners: PowerBlanket 4C's Spray Equipment Panther East In addition to heated blankets, Carlisle has also made advancements to delivery systems to help applicators identify when an adhesive product is too cold. In January 2020, Carlisle introduced Temperature Warning Tips for Flexible FAST Dual Tanks. These tips make it easy to apply polyurethane adhesives properly. Carlisle’s Temperature Warning Tips provide the applicator with a visual cue to easily identify if the material is too cold during application: Nozzle turns BLUE when adhesive temperature is below the required 70°F. Nozzle will be CLEAR when adhesive is spraying at optimal temperature. Compression seal added to create a tighter fit between the gun and tip. This helps eliminate adhesive leaks. For more information, please contact your manufacturer's representative.

Over the past 10 years, there has been a shift in minimum required R-values. The 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) is the driving force behind this movement. More than 20 states have adopted the 2015 IECC, or a portion of its provisions, as their statewide energy code. See the chart below for minimum R-values per climate zone. Since 2009, the roofing industry has seen an R-10 increase in the majority of the states. The total minimum insulation thickness has increased from 3.5" (R-20) to 5.2" (R-30) in parts of over 40 states. The map below can help you identify climate zones within your state. Climate zones 4 through 8 have experienced an R-10 increase. Additional resources are provided below to help you determine the applicable energy code and its associated minimum R-value requirements in a given state or local jurisdiction.    1. Minimum Insulation R-value Requirements: Non-Residential, Above Roof Deck    2. The Building Codes Assistance Project For more information on R-value requirements, please contact Brandon Reynolds at brandon.reynolds@carlisleccm.com

It is well known that moisture is detrimental to roof system performance. Wet insulation can lead to several issues including mold, reduced membrane adhesion, and ultimately roof system failure during wind events. Because wet polyiso must be removed and replaced, watertight tie-ins are essential every night. But let's take a step backwards and look at overall polyiso storage before and during installation. An appropriate understanding of storage, handling, and application will result in a properly constructed roof system. Material delivery should be carefully coordinated with the roof installation schedule to minimize outdoor storage. However, short-term outdoor storage can be necessary at times. When storing polyiso outdoors, bundles should not be stored directly on the ground. If possible, they should be stored over a finished surface rather than dirt or grass. Bundles should be covered with a waterproof cover and secured to prevent wind displacement. Exercise care when handling polyiso to prevent breaking or crushing the edges and surfaces. Polyiso should always be installed on dry roof decks and in dry conditions. Apply only as much polyiso as can be covered by completed roofing the same day. Roof surface protection (plywood) should be used in areas where storage and staging are planned to reduce direct, excessive traffic. Tips: Place bundles on pallets or included feet over a finished surface such as gravel, pavement, or concrete. Remove polyiso bundles from trucks with proper equipment. Do not push bundles off the edge of a truck or "roll" a pallet across the roof deck. Follow Carlisle’s requirements regarding product application to ensure adequate performance of the roofing system. For more information, please contact your manufacturer's representative.