Direct Answer
TAS 117 is a series of Florida Building Code testing standards that evaluates specific fastener-related performance in roofing assemblies. It is important to clarify that **TAS 117 is not a tile-roofing tile-strength or tile-uplift test**. Its three parts address mechanical fastener withdrawal resistance, dynamic pull-through performance of roofing membranes over fasteners, and dynamic pull-off performance of fastener heads or bearing plates.
For tile roofing in Florida, other standards are more directly relevant. TAS 100 addresses wind and wind-driven rain resistance for discontinuous roof systems, TAS 112 covers physical-property requirements for concrete roof tiles, and TAS 101 evaluates static uplift resistance for mortar- or adhesive-set tile systems. Applicable requirements depend on the roofing system, project location, and adopted building code.
Why Does TAS 117 Matter for Tile Roofing?
Although TAS 117 does not directly establish whether a roof tile can resist hurricane winds, its fastener-related testing can matter when a roof assembly includes mechanically attached components. Understanding which test applies helps contractors, designers, and property owners avoid confusing component testing with complete roof-system approval.
1. What Each Part of TAS 117 Tests
- TAS 117(A): Tests the withdrawal resistance of mechanical fasteners used in roof-system assemblies.
- TAS 117(B): Evaluates dynamic pull-through performance of roofing membranes over fastener heads or fasteners with metal bearing plates.
- TAS 117(C): Evaluates dynamic pull-off performance of roofing fastener heads or fasteners with bearing plates.
These tests address different failure mechanisms. They should not be treated as interchangeable or as direct tests of the strength of clay or concrete roof tiles.
2. Which Standards Matter More Directly for Tile Roofs?
| Standard | Primary purpose |
|---|---|
| TAS 100 | Wind and wind-driven rain resistance testing for discontinuous roof systems. |
| TAS 112 | Standard requirements for concrete roof tiles. |
| TAS 101 | Static uplift resistance testing for mortar- or adhesive-set tile systems. |
| RAS 118, 119 and 120 | Installation requirements for specified mechanically fastened and mortar- or adhesive-set tile systems. |
The applicable standard depends on the tile material, attachment method, roof assembly, and jurisdiction. A tile product meeting a physical-property requirement does not, by itself, establish that the entire installed roof system complies with wind-uplift requirements.
3. What Should Contractors Verify?
Before installing or replacing a tile roof in Florida, contractors should:
- Identify the applicable Florida Building Code edition and any local requirements.
- Confirm that the proposed tile and roof assembly have the required product approval.
- Verify the approved attachment method, fasteners, underlayment, and supporting deck.
- Check the required wind-uplift resistance and installation details for the building’s location and exposure.
- Use the specific test standard referenced by the approved assembly rather than assuming TAS 117 applies to the tiles themselves.
Bottom Line
TAS 117 matters when evaluating certain fastener-related performance characteristics in roofing assemblies, but it is not the primary test standard for determining the wind resistance of tile roofing. For Florida tile roofs, TAS 100, TAS 112, TAS 101, and the applicable Roofing Application Standards are more directly relevant to evaluating system performance and installation compliance.
Related Questions
- What Is TAS 105 and When Is It Required?
- What Is TAS 114 and How Does It Relate to Roof Assembly Approval?
- What Is TAS 100 and What Does It Test?
- How Is Fastener Withdrawal Resistance Evaluated?
Sources
- Florida Building Code, Test Protocols for the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone
- Miami-Dade County Product Control and Notice of Acceptance resources
- Florida Roofing Contractors Association: 2026 Tile Code Update
Last reviewed: October 2026
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Roofing requirements vary by building, jurisdiction, approved assembly, and applicable code edition. Confirm project-specific requirements with the local building department and qualified design or roofing professionals.
