TecTopics: Summertime Jobsite Deliveries and Storage

On summertime projects, building products are sometimes delivered to the jobsite days or weeks before they are finally ready to be installed. While they are on the jobsite, what are some of the best practices a contractor should follow with regards to storing and handling these products before use? Firstly, you should always handle and store roofing materials and place equipment in a manner to avoid permanent deflection of deck. And safety and staying alert are always important, especially when staging products before use.

Each product has a Product Data Sheet that contains specific information on delivery, storage, and handling. Let's review some general guidelines.

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DELIVERY
Deliver roofing materials to the project site in original containers with seals unbroken and labeled with manufacturer's name, product brand name and type, date of manufacture, approval or listing agency markings, and directions for storing and mixing with other components. This is important for the verification of products, as well as tracking for sustainability guidelines that may be in place such as on-site recycling.

STORAGE
GENERAL: Jobsite temps in excess of 90°F (32°C) may affect shelf life of curable materials such as uncured flashing, adhesives, sealants, primers, SecurTAPE, and PS Flashing/Accessories.

LIQUIDS (adhesives, primers, etc.): Store liquid materials in their original, undamaged containers in a clean, dry, protected location and within the temperature range required by the roofing system manufacturer. Protect stored liquid material from direct sunlight. This is especially important when the weather is going to be on the top end of a product's installation temperature window. Do not store adhesive containers with open lids.

POLYISO INSULATION PRODUCTS: Protect roof insulation materials from physical damage and deterioration caused by sunlight, moisture, soiling, and other sources. Store in a dry location. As insulation bundle packaging is intended for transportation only, the following precautions are required when outdoor storage is necessary:

1. Store bundles flat and upright with the bottom of the bundles elevated (2” or more) above a finished surface.
2. Slit the bundle packaging vertically down the center of the two short sides to prevent moisture accumulation within the package.
3. Completely cover the bundle with a waterproof tarp and secure to prevent wind damage and/or displacement.
4. Exercise care when handling polyiso to prevent breaking or crushing the edges and surfaces.
5. Polyiso should always be installed on dry roof decks and in dry conditions.
6. Apply only as much polyiso as can be covered by completed roofing the same day.
7. Roof surface protection (plywood) should be used in areas where storage and staging are planned to reduce direct, excessive traffic.

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For more information, check out this video: Carlisle SynTec Training Webinars: Storage 101 & 102.