ASTM D3161/D3161M Standard Test Method for Wind Resistance of Steep Slope Roofing Products (Fan-Induced Method)

Get Certified ASTM D3161 Testing for Reliable Roofing Product Wind Resistance Evaluation

ASTM D3161 is a test method that establishes a standard way to test the wind resistance of steep slope roofing products in a laboratory setting, where a wind fan creates the wind. The results may be used to support product development, quality control, and certification and evaluation of a roofing product for steep slope applications. Natural wind conditions may not be the same as in a laboratory, so the results of the test should be viewed with caution in terms of the limitations of the test method. 

• Material: Discontinuous, air-permeable, steep slope roofing products.
• Roofing products: Asphalt shingles, polymer-based shingles, fiber-cement shingles, concrete tiles, clay tiles, metal shingles, and photovoltaic shingles.
• Wind resistance: Evaluation of resistance to fan-induced wind exposure.
• Installation: Application to test panels according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
• Test slope: Testing at a 2:12 (17 %) slope or the lowest slope permitted by the manufacturer.
• Maximum exposure: Evaluation is limited to products applied with a maximum exposure of 410 mm [16 in.].
• Sealant: Evaluation of products in which sealant contributes to holding down the leading edge of tabs when required by the installation instructions.
• Interlocking: Evaluation of products that obtain wind resistance through mechanical interlocking.
• Test classification: Classification according to the specified fan-induced test velocities.
• Limitations: The method does not directly correlate test velocities with wind speeds experienced in service.
• Exclusions: Continuous, non-permeable roof systems such as membranes and mechanically seamed metal roof panels are outside the scope.

What are the Uses of ASTM D3161 Testing?

This is accomplished by testing applicable steep-slope roofing products in a controlled, fan-induced wind, as outlined by ASTM D3161. The standard can be used to provide information on roofing product behavior for evaluation, product development and control, and product certification and evaluation. Wind resistance is subject to the influence of factors, such as temperature, time, roof slope, contamination, installation of fasteners, and adhesion of the sealant.

• Tests the ability of appropriate steep slope roofing products to withstand wind uplift.
• Provides a standardized test method for a fan.
• Evaluates resistance to wind-induced effects under specified test conditions of roofing products.
• Helps develop and test roofing products.
• Provides test data for certification and lab testing.
• Comparisons of roofing products tested under specified conditions are allowed.
• Evaluates the importance of rigidity, mechanical interlocking, and sealant (when used).
• Provides standardized test data for appropriate roofing products.  

Which materials can be tested under ASTM D3161?

Numerous air-permeable, discontinuous, and steep-slope roofing products can be tested to ASTM D3161. The scope includes asphalt shingles, polymer-based shingles, fiber-cement shingles, concrete tiles, clay tiles, metal shingles, and photovoltaic shingles. The products should be appropriate for the test conditions described in the standard, such as application to the test panel per the manufacturer’s instructions and applicable slope and exposure requirements. This method does not work for continuous, impermeable roofing systems and coverings, such as membranes and mechanically seamed metal roof panels. 

Why is ASTM D3161 Important?

ASTM D3161 is important because it provides a standardized test for the wind resistance of acceptable steep-slope roofing products under fan-induced wind. The method enables roofing products to be tested in a controlled environment and thus offers a uniform standard for assessing the response of the roofing product to a forced air flow. The results cannot be taken as a direct indicator of wind speeds experienced in service, as the natural wind varies in intensity, duration, and turbulence. 

ASTM D3161 Testing Process and Data Collection

ASTM D3161 is a fan-induced method in which a fixed quantity of air is forced over the open face of roofing product samples attached to a test panel. Testing is done on the test panel, with the product applied before the test according to the manufacturer’s directions, and the panel placed at the set slope. The results of the test and the product’s response to the airflow are recorded. Data generated from this information is for the wind resistance of the roofing product under the testing conditions and is not a guarantee of the roof’s wind resistance in service. 

Common Challenges and Troubleshooting

Common issues with ASTM D3161 and troubleshooting include: Incorrect specimen installation, improper fastening or sealing, incorrect test slope, improper specimen exposure, airflow-control problems, measurement errors, and differences between lab test conditions and actual field conditions. It is recommended that it be installed as per the manufacturer’s instructions since installation, sealant application, exposure, etc. can impact the wind resistance of the product. The test should also be performed with a proper check of the test setup and its airflow system before the test run, to keep the desired conditions throughout. 

• The roofing product name and test specimen setup are recorded in the lab.
• The laboratory documents the installed and test-panel conditions.
• Analysts record the test slope and product exposure according to test requirements.
• In the fan-induced test, airflow conditions are also recorded, and observations are made.
• The roofing product’s response is tested under the specified laboratory conditions.
• When interpreting the results, consider the limitations of the fan-induced method and the difference between wind induced in a laboratory and natural wind.  

FAQs

Why is ASTM D3161 important?

ASTM D3161 offers a procedure that describes the wind resistance characteristics of applicable steep slope roofing products that are created by a fan. 

What is ASTM D3161 used for?

Indicates the wind resistance of discontinuous, air-permeable, steep slope roofing products under the specified test conditions using a fan, conforming to ASTM D3161. 

Which roofing products can be tested under ASTM D3161?

The approach applies to various products such as asphalt shingles, polymer-based shingles, fiber-cement shingles, concrete tiles, clay tiles, metal shingles, and photovoltaic shingles. 

Link to ASTM D3161