For tile roofing in Florida, TAS 117 is an important testing standard that helps determine whether roofing tiles can withstand the severe wind forces associated with hurricanes and tropical storms. Understanding TAS 117 matters for property owners, contractors, and building professionals because Florida’s high-wind environment requires roofing systems to meet strict performance requirements.
What Is TAS 117?
TAS 117 is part of the Florida Building Code’s Testing Application Standards (TAS). It establishes testing procedures used to evaluate the wind resistance of certain roofing components, including the performance of tile roof assemblies and their attachment systems.
Roof tiles can be exposed to significant uplift and pressure during hurricanes. A tile may appear securely installed under normal weather conditions but can fail when subjected to strong, rapidly changing wind forces. TAS testing helps determine whether a roofing assembly can perform under these demanding conditions.
It is important to understand that TAS 117 is a test standard, not simply a statement that a particular tile is “hurricane-proof.” The actual performance of a tile roof depends on the tile design, fastening method, underlayment, roof deck, installation method, and complete roof assembly.
Why Does TAS 117 Matter for Tile Roofing in Florida?
Florida experiences frequent tropical storms and hurricanes, making wind resistance a major consideration when installing or replacing tile roofs. A properly tested and approved roofing system can reduce the risk of tile displacement and damage during severe weather.
TAS 117 matters because it helps verify that roofing components have been evaluated according to recognized Florida testing procedures. This is particularly important in areas subject to high-wind requirements, where the Florida Building Code imposes specific standards for roofing materials and installation.
For commercial and residential property owners, compliance can also affect building permits, inspections, insurance considerations, and the long-term performance of the roof.
How Does TAS Testing Relate to Tile Attachment?
Tile attachment is one of the most important factors in hurricane-resistant tile roofing. Depending on the roof design and approved system, tiles may be mechanically fastened, adhered, or installed using another approved method.
The attachment must be capable of resisting the wind uplift forces expected at the building location. Testing helps establish whether the selected tile and attachment configuration can meet the required performance criteria.
This means a contractor should not simply choose a tile based on appearance. The tile, fasteners or adhesive, installation method, and supporting roof assembly should work together as an approved system.
TAS 117 and Florida High-Wind Areas
Florida has different wind-speed requirements depending on location and building characteristics. Coastal and hurricane-prone areas can face especially demanding design conditions.
When replacing or installing a tile roof, contractors should determine the applicable wind requirements and verify that the proposed roofing system has the appropriate approvals and testing documentation. Florida product approvals and project-specific requirements may also need to be considered.
What Should Property Owners Ask Their Roofing Contractor?
Before installing tile roofing, property owners should ask:
- Is the proposed tile system approved for the project location?
- What wind rating or design pressure does the system meet?
- How will the tiles be attached?
- Does the complete assembly have the required testing or approval documentation?
- Will the installation comply with the current Florida Building Code?
- Will permits and inspections be required?
A qualified Florida roofing contractor should be able to explain these requirements and provide documentation for the proposed roofing system.
Final Takeaway
TAS 117 matters for tile roofing because it provides a standardized way to evaluate roofing performance under demanding wind conditions. For Florida properties, especially those exposed to hurricane-force winds, selecting a properly tested and approved tile roofing system is an important part of building-code compliance and long-term roof protection.
Property owners should look beyond the tile itself and evaluate the entire roofing assembly, including attachment method, underlayment, roof deck, installation procedure, and applicable Florida Building Code requirements. Working with an experienced commercial or residential roofing professional can help ensure the tile system is appropriately selected and installed for the property’s wind exposure.
Related Questions
- What does TAS 100(A) measure for tile roof systems?
- What is TAS 100 and what does it test?
- Why are Florida Building Code (FBC) standards like TAS crucial?
- What is TAS 105 and when is it required?
- What is the difference between a “roof assembly” and a “roof covering” in code language?
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