Jun 8 2010
Tennessee-based Propex Operating Company today announced that Opus™ Roof Blanket, a new category of steep-slope roofing underlayment that uses proprietary "blanket technology," was issued a report from ICC Evaluation Service, Inc. (ICC-ES).
The ICC report number for Opus is ESR-3041 and indicates that the product is in compliance with Acceptance Criteria (AC) 188 Roof Underlayments and AC207 Polypropylene Roof Underlayments.
"As Opus Roof Blanket defines a new category of roofing underlayment in the industry, obtaining this code report by a prominent building code authority is critical to the product's growth and expansion," said Ralph Bruno, Executive Vice President for Propex Global Sales and Marketing. "A quality roof underlayment is required by most building codes, but it's also a key component of the roof system as an additional layer of protection in severe conditions."
In addition, Opus Roof Blanket's surface was independently tested for slip resistance in wet and dry conditions against ASTM F 1679 using a measurement device called a Variable Incidence Tribometer. This is one of only two approved testing methods for slip resistance under wet conditions and is the most widely used and accepted. After testing six different types of plastic sheet underlayment, 30 lb. felt paper and Opus Roof Blanket, Opus had the best slip resistance of all the products tested in both dry and wet and dry conditions.
In fact, Opus Roof Blanket is the only product to achieve test results high enough to be considered reasonably safe to walk on in wet conditions on a 4:12 slope in all four walking directions. "No other types of products tested achieved results that are considered 'reasonably safe' in any direction, putting Opus in a category of its own," said Bruno.
Developed by Propex, Opus utilizes "blanket technology" that overcomes problems with felt paper and plastic sheet, both of which can become slippery. Felt paper is also subject to tearing, especially if walked on and can be messy to work with. Opus, with its tan color that stays cooler, can be snapped with a chalk line or written on. It is also extremely easy to install, tear-resistant and grips tight around fasteners. Opus can be used for asphalt, cedar shake, tile and metal roofing projects. It holds up to wind and rain and has the Opus 30/30 guarantee, which says the underlayment can go uncovered for 30 months and will endure 30 years after being covered with roofing materials.
Source: http://www.opusroofblanket.com/