ASTM D4897/D4897M-16(2023)
(Specification)Standard Specification for Asphalt-Coated Glass-Fiber Venting Base Sheet Used in Roofing
Standard Specification for Asphalt-Coated Glass-Fiber Venting Base Sheet Used in Roofing
ABSTRACT
This specification covers the manufacture and requirements of Type II heavy-duty asphalt-impregnated and coated glass-fiber venting base sheet with mineral surfacing on the top side and coarse mineral granules on the bottom side for use as the first ply of a roofing membrane. The mat shall be a thin porous sheet of uniformly distributed glass fibers, with or without the addition of reinforcing strands, or glass yarns, which are bonded with a water-resistant resinous binder, and shall be permitted to contain holes designated for attachment with mopping asphalt. The material shall conform to physical (longitudinal and transverse breaking strength, and diameter and center-to-center spacing of spot-mopping holes, pliability, loss and behavior on heating, ash content, and moisture) and dimensional (mass, width, and area) property requirements. The finished product shall not crack nor be so sticky as to cause tearing or other damage upon being unrolled at given temperatures.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers asphalt-impregnated and coated glass-fiber base sheet with mineral surfacing on the top side and coarse mineral granules on the bottom side for use as the first ply of a roofing membrane. These base sheets provide for the lateral release of pressure in roofing systems because they are not solidly attached and the coarse granular surface provides an open, porous channel in the horizontal plane beneath the membrane. The base sheets shall be permitted to be with or without perforations or embossings.
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 31-Jan-2023
- Technical Committee
- D08 - Roofing and Waterproofing
- Drafting Committee
- D08.04 - Felts, Fabrics and Bituminous Sheet Materials
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2020
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2019
- Effective Date
- 15-Dec-2018
- Effective Date
- 15-Dec-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2018
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2015
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2014
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Sep-2010
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2009
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2009
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2009
Overview
ASTM D4897/D4897M-16(2023), published by ASTM International, is the standard specification for asphalt-coated glass-fiber venting base sheets used as the first ply in roofing membrane systems. This standard details the manufacturing requirements and properties of Type II heavy-duty, asphalt-impregnated and coated glass-fiber base sheets. These base sheets are surfaced with fine mineral material on the top side and embedded coarse mineral granules on the bottom side, creating a porous structure that aids in lateral pressure relief within roofing systems.
The specification ensures consistent material quality, critical physical and dimensional performance, and robust installation characteristics, which are essential for the longevity and reliability of built-up roofing (BUR) and other multi-ply roof assemblies.
Key Topics
- Material Composition: Specifies that the base sheet consists of a thin, porous glass-fiber mat, bonded with a water-resistant binder, and impregnated and coated with asphalt. The mat may include reinforcing strands for added strength.
- Surface Treatments: Outlines requirements for mineral surfacing on the upper side and coarse mineral granules on the lower side to provide venting channels under the membrane.
- Physical Properties: Includes minimum values for breaking strength, flexibility (pliability), heating behavior, ash and moisture content. Details the requirements for dimensional stability, mass, and workmanship.
- Optional Features: Allows for perforations or embossing to facilitate spot mopping and mechanical attachment.
- Inspection, Testing, and Packaging: Describes methods for sampling and testing (primarily referencing ASTM D146 and ASTM D228) as well as packaging, marking, and rejection criteria.
Applications
Asphalt-coated glass-fiber venting base sheets covered in ASTM D4897/D4897M-16(2023) are primarily used in:
- Roofing Membrane Systems: Serving as the first ply in built-up roofs (BUR) and modified bitumen systems, these sheets are designed for venting and pressure relief.
- Commercial and Industrial Roofing: Widely adopted for low-slope roofing where durability, weather resistance, and vapor management are critical.
- Refurbishment and New Construction: Suitable for both new roof installations and reroofing projects, especially where vapor drive or trapped moisture is a concern.
- High-Performance Environments: Used in systems requiring enhanced strength and dimensional stability, such as in areas with significant temperature variances.
The standard guides manufacturers, contractors, and specifiers in selecting compliant materials, ensuring resilient roof assemblies and reducing installation failures related to poor material quality.
Related Standards
For broader context and compliance, reference the following associated ASTM standards:
- ASTM D146/D146M - Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Bitumen-Saturated Felts and Woven Fabrics for Roofing and Waterproofing
- ASTM D228/D228M - Test Methods for Sampling, Testing, and Analysis of Asphalt Roll Roofing, Cap Sheets, and Shingles Used in Roofing and Waterproofing
- ASTM D1079 - Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
These standards provide additional methodologies for testing, terminology, and performance evaluation, supporting the proper use and specification of glass-fiber venting base sheets in roofing applications.
Keywords: asphalt-coated glass-fiber base sheet, roofing membrane, venting base sheet, mineral surfacing, ASTM D4897, built-up roof, roofing specification, pressure relief, vapor management, commercial roofing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D4897/D4897M-16(2023) is a technical specification published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Specification for Asphalt-Coated Glass-Fiber Venting Base Sheet Used in Roofing". This standard covers: ABSTRACT This specification covers the manufacture and requirements of Type II heavy-duty asphalt-impregnated and coated glass-fiber venting base sheet with mineral surfacing on the top side and coarse mineral granules on the bottom side for use as the first ply of a roofing membrane. The mat shall be a thin porous sheet of uniformly distributed glass fibers, with or without the addition of reinforcing strands, or glass yarns, which are bonded with a water-resistant resinous binder, and shall be permitted to contain holes designated for attachment with mopping asphalt. The material shall conform to physical (longitudinal and transverse breaking strength, and diameter and center-to-center spacing of spot-mopping holes, pliability, loss and behavior on heating, ash content, and moisture) and dimensional (mass, width, and area) property requirements. The finished product shall not crack nor be so sticky as to cause tearing or other damage upon being unrolled at given temperatures. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers asphalt-impregnated and coated glass-fiber base sheet with mineral surfacing on the top side and coarse mineral granules on the bottom side for use as the first ply of a roofing membrane. These base sheets provide for the lateral release of pressure in roofing systems because they are not solidly attached and the coarse granular surface provides an open, porous channel in the horizontal plane beneath the membrane. The base sheets shall be permitted to be with or without perforations or embossings. 1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard. 1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ABSTRACT This specification covers the manufacture and requirements of Type II heavy-duty asphalt-impregnated and coated glass-fiber venting base sheet with mineral surfacing on the top side and coarse mineral granules on the bottom side for use as the first ply of a roofing membrane. The mat shall be a thin porous sheet of uniformly distributed glass fibers, with or without the addition of reinforcing strands, or glass yarns, which are bonded with a water-resistant resinous binder, and shall be permitted to contain holes designated for attachment with mopping asphalt. The material shall conform to physical (longitudinal and transverse breaking strength, and diameter and center-to-center spacing of spot-mopping holes, pliability, loss and behavior on heating, ash content, and moisture) and dimensional (mass, width, and area) property requirements. The finished product shall not crack nor be so sticky as to cause tearing or other damage upon being unrolled at given temperatures. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers asphalt-impregnated and coated glass-fiber base sheet with mineral surfacing on the top side and coarse mineral granules on the bottom side for use as the first ply of a roofing membrane. These base sheets provide for the lateral release of pressure in roofing systems because they are not solidly attached and the coarse granular surface provides an open, porous channel in the horizontal plane beneath the membrane. The base sheets shall be permitted to be with or without perforations or embossings. 1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard. 1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ASTM D4897/D4897M-16(2023) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 91.100.50 - Binders. Sealing materials. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM D4897/D4897M-16(2023) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D1079-20, ASTM D228/D228M-19, ASTM D1079-18, ASTM D1079-18e1, ASTM D228/D228M-18, ASTM D228/D228M-16, ASTM D1079-16, ASTM D228/D228M-15, ASTM D228/D228M-09(2014), ASTM D1079-13e1, ASTM D1079-13, ASTM D1079-10, ASTM D228/D228M-09, ASTM D228/D228M-09e1, ASTM D228/D228M-09e2. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM D4897/D4897M-16(2023) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D4897/D4897M − 16 (Reapproved 2023)
Standard Specification for
Asphalt-Coated Glass-Fiber Venting Base Sheet Used in
Roofing
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D4897/D4897M; the number immediately following the designation indicates the
year of original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last
reapproval. A superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.
1. Scope D146/D146M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing
Bitumen-Saturated Felts and Woven Fabrics for Roofing
1.1 This specification covers asphalt-impregnated and
and Waterproofing
coated glass-fiber base sheet with mineral surfacing on the top
D228/D228M Test Methods for Sampling, Testing, and
side and coarse mineral granules on the bottom side for use as
Analysis of Asphalt Roll Roofing, Cap Sheets, and
the first ply of a roofing membrane. These base sheets provide
Shingles Used in Roofing and Waterproofing
for the lateral release of pressure in roofing systems because
D1079 Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
they are not solidly attached and the coarse granular surface
provides an open, porous channel in the horizontal plane
3. Terminology
beneath the membrane. The base sheets shall be permitted to be
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms used in this
with or without perforations or embossings.
specification, refer to Terminology D1079.
1.2 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units
are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in
4. Classification
each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each
4.1 Type II—Heavy-duty asphalt-coated glass-fiber venting
system shall be used independently of the other. Combining
base sheet.
values from the two systems may result in non-conformance
with the standard.
5. Materials and Manufacture
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
5.1 The mat shall be a thin porous sheet of uniformly
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
distributed glass fibers, with or without the addition of rein-
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
forcing strands, or glass yarns, which are bonded with a
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
water-resistant resinous binder.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
5.2 In the process of manufacture, the glass mat is impreg-
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
nated and coated on both sides with a hot asphaltic coating with
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
or without a mineral stabilizer and surfaced on the bottom side
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
with coarse mineral granules embedded in an asphaltic coating.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
The top side shall be surfaced with fine mineral surfacing.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
5.3 The product shall be permitted to be embossed or
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
unembossed on the bottom side. The product shall be permitted
to contain holes designated for attachment with mopping
2. Referenced Documents
2 asphalt.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
6. Physical Requirements, Dimensions, and Masses
6.1 The material at the point of manufacture shall conform
This specification is under the jurisdicton of ASTM Committee D08 on Roofing
to the physical requirements in Table 1 and the dimensions and
and Waterproofing and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D08.04 on Felts,
masses in Table 2.
Fabrics and Bituminous Sheet Materials.
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2023. Published February 2023. Originally
6.2 The finished product shall not crack nor be so sticky as
approved in 1989. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as D4897/D4897M – 16.
to cause tearing or other damage upon being unrolled at
DOI: 10.1520/D4897_D4897M-16R23.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or temperatures between 10 °C and 60 °C [50 °F and 140 °F].
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
6.3 Pliability at 25 °C 6 1 °C [77 °F 6 2 °F]—At least
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. eight out of ten strips shall not crack when tested in accordance
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D4897/D4897M − 16 (2023)
TABLE 1 Physical Requirements
8. Sampling and Test Methods
Type II
8.1 Sample the material and determine the properties enu-
Breaking strength, min, at 25 °C ± 1 °C [77 °F ± 2 °F] 7.7 [44]
merated in this specification in accordance with Test Methods
kN/m [lbf/in.]—longitudina
...
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