ASTM D7186-14(2021)

Standard Practice for Quality Assurance Observation of Roof Construction and Repair

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Quality assurance observation of roofing projects is an important process for determining if the removal, installation, repair, or maintenance of roofing materials or systems follows the scope and intent of the contract documents and are installed and executed in accordance with accepted roofing practices and the contract documents.  
4.2 This practice is applied to full-time quality assurance observation of roofing projects involving the removal, construction, and repair and maintenance of low and steep-slope roof systems and roofing-related accessories.  
4.3 This practice establishes the role and responsibilities of those performing quality assurance observation and includes qualifications of the quality assurance observer, as well as procedures for observation and documentation during the roof construction or repair process.  
4.4 If used, nothing in this practice shall be interpreted as precluding the use of all or parts of it while conducting full-time or part-time quality assurance observer (QAO) inspection.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice covers procedures for performing visual monitoring of roofing construction to:  
1.1.1 Establish guidelines for quality assurance observation practices; and  
1.1.2 Define the role and responsibilities of the quality assurance observer.  
1.2 This practice pertains to quality assurance observation of roofing projects and the report of information obtained from these observations. This practice is applicable to new construction or reroofing projects involving the installation of a new roof system, the removal of existing roofing and installation of a new roof system, or recovering an existing roof. It is also applicable to roofing projects involving repairs or scheduled maintenance to an existing roof.  
1.3 This practice contains the following information:  
1.3.1 The objectives of the quality assurance process;  
1.3.2 The responsibilities and qualifications of the individual(s) involved in the observations of the roof construction or repair;  
1.3.3 Identification and use of the basic tools or equipment required for the visual roof observation process; and  
1.3.4 Monitoring, recording, and reporting procedures.  
1.4 This practice addresses new construction or repair. This practice does not address the investigation, condition, or analysis of existing roofs.  
1.5 This practice does not address practices of roof investigation, condition reporting, or analysis of preexisting roofs.  
1.6 This practice does not pertain to quality control processes or techniques performed by persons or entities representing or under contract to the roofing contractor. The quality control process is separate and distinct from the quality assurance observation process.  
1.7 Assessment of safe work practices or safety monitoring procedures followed by the contractor is outside the scope of this practice.  
1.8 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.  
1.9 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-Oct-2021
• ICS: 91.060.20 - Roofs
• Technical Committee: D08 - Roofing and Waterproofing
• Drafting Committee: D08.20 - Roofing Membrane Systems

Relations

• Refers: ASTM D1079-20 - Standard Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 01-May-2020
• Refers: ASTM D1079-18 - Standard Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2018
• Refers: ASTM D1079-18e1 - Standard Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2018
• Refers: ASTM D1079-16 - Standard Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2016
• Refers: ASTM E631-15 - Standard Terminology of Building Constructions
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2015
• Refers: ASTM E631-14 - Standard Terminology of Building Constructions
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2014
• Refers: ASTM D1079-13 - Standard Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2013
• Refers: ASTM D1079-13e1 - Standard Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2013
• Refers: ASTM D1079-10 - Standard Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2010
• Refers: ASTM D1079-09 - Standard Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Refers: ASTM D1079-08a - Standard Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2008
• Refers: ASTM D1079-08 - Standard Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2008
• Refers: ASTM D1079-07a - Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2007
• Refers: ASTM D1079-07 - Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 15-Jan-2007
• Refers: ASTM D1079-06 - Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2006

Overview

ASTM D7186-14(2021): Standard Practice for Quality Assurance Observation of Roof Construction and Repair establishes essential procedures and guidelines for visual monitoring of roofing construction and repair projects. Developed by ASTM International, this standard outlines the quality assurance observation process to ensure roofing projects-whether new construction, removal, repairs, or scheduled maintenance-comply with the contract documents and industry-accepted roofing practices.

This practice defines the role, responsibilities, and qualifications of the quality assurance observer (QAO), as well as the documentation and reporting requirements during roofing installation or repair. It applies to both low-slope and steep-slope roof systems and related roofing accessories, providing structure to projects of varying complexity and scale.

Key Topics

• Quality Assurance Observation Procedures

  • Step-by-step practices for visual monitoring of roofing work
  • Emphasis on compliance with contract documents and specifications

• Role and Qualifications of the QAO

  • QAO must have knowledge of accepted roofing practices, project specifications, and the specified roof system
  • Qualifications may be obtained through recognized industry training, manufacturer-specific training, or practical experience

• Observation and Documentation Process

  • Ongoing daily observation and objective reporting throughout construction or repair
  • Requirements for written and photographic documentation
  • Monitoring key aspects such as general jobsite conditions, materials, installation practices, and weather conditions

• Project Reporting

  • Daily and progress reporting formats, including sample forms for training, pre-construction damage, material delivery, and daily activities
  • Reporting of variances and resolution tracking

• Required Tools and Equipment

  • QAOs must be properly equipped with appropriate tools-such as camera, tape measure, thermometer, wind speed indicator, and marking tools-to accurately assess and document construction activities

Applications

ASTM D7186 is widely used by building owners, architects, consultants, and contractors seeking structured quality assurance in roofing construction projects. Its applications include:

• New roof system installations for commercial, industrial, or residential properties
• Reroofing projects involving the removal of existing roof systems and installation of new ones
• Recovery or overlay of existing roofs to extend service life
• Routine or scheduled maintenance and repair activities requiring documentation of compliance

By applying this standard, project stakeholders can:

• Ensure all roofing activities faithfully adhere to contract documents and manufacturers’ requirements
• Provide transparent reporting to owners and designers, supporting informed decisions about project status and compliance
• Improve quality, consistency, and accountability in roofing construction and repair processes

Related Standards

The following standards, guidelines, and manuals are referenced within or aligned with ASTM D7186 for comprehensive roofing quality assurance:

• ASTM D1079 - Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
• ASTM E631 - Terminology of Building Constructions
• ARMA/NRCA/SPRI Repair Manuals for Low-Slope Membrane Roof Systems
• NRCA/SPFA Quality Control Guidelines for Sprayed Polyurethane Foam Roofing
• ARMA/NRCA Quality Control Guidelines for Built-Up, Polymer Modified Bitumen, and Asphalt Shingle Roofing
• TRI/WSRCA Concrete and Clay Tile Installation Manuals
• RCI Manual of Practice
• National Slate Association Slate Roofs Design and Installation Manual

Practical Value

Implementing ASTM D7186 enhances roof project documentation, streamlines communication among stakeholders, and provides an auditable record of quality assurance observation. By ensuring clear, objective monitoring and reporting, projects are less susceptible to costly errors, warranty disputes, or safety incidents. This standard delivers practical guidance for raising the bar of quality assurance in the roofing sector, establishing greater confidence and durability in roof system performance.

Keywords: roofing quality assurance, roof system installation, roofing repair, contract compliance, quality assurance observer, roof construction documentation, ASTM D7186, roofing standards, project reporting, visual roof observation

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: D7186 − 14 (Reapproved 2021)
Standard Practice for
Quality Assurance Observation of Roof Construction and
Repair
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D7186; 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.
1. Scope 1.7 Assessment of safe work practices or safety monitoring
procedures followed by the contractor is outside the scope of
1.1 This practice covers procedures for performing visual
this practice.
monitoring of roofing construction to:
1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the
1.1.1 Establish guidelines for quality assurance observation
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
practices; and
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
1.1.2 Define the role and responsibilities of the quality
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
assurance observer.
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.2 This practice pertains to quality assurance observation
1.9 This international standard was developed in accor-
of roofing projects and the report of information obtained from
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
these observations.This practice is applicable to new construc-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
tion or reroofing projects involving the installation of a new
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
roof system, the removal of existing roofing and installation of
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
a new roof system, or recovering an existing roof. It is also
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
applicable to roofing projects involving repairs or scheduled
maintenance to an existing roof.
2. Referenced Documents
1.3 This practice contains the following information:
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.3.1 The objectives of the quality assurance process;
D1079 Terminology Relating to Roofing and Waterproofing
1.3.2 The responsibilities and qualifications of the individu-
E631 Terminology of Building Constructions
al(s) involved in the observations of the roof construction or
2.2 Other Documents:
repair;
The Contract Documents
1.3.3 Identification and use of the basic tools or equipment
Specification Literature or Roof System Installation
required for the visual roof observation process; and
Requirements, supplied by the applicable manufacturer,
1.3.4 Monitoring, recording, and reporting procedures.
supplier, or distributor of the roof system material
1.4 This practice addresses new construction or repair. This
ARMA/NRCA/SPRI Repair Manual for Low-Slope Mem-
practice does not address the investigation, condition, or
3,4,5
brane Roof Systems
analysis of existing roofs.
ARMA/NRCA Quality Control Guidelines for the Applica-
3,4
1.5 This practice does not address practices of roof
tion of Built-Up Roofing
investigation, condition reporting, or analysis of preexisting ARMA/NRCA Quality Control Guidelines for the Applica-
3,4
roofs.
tion of Polymer Modified Bitumen Roofing
NRCA/SPRI Quality Control Guidelines for theApplication
1.6 This practice does not pertain to quality control pro-
4,5
of Thermoset Single-Ply Roof Membranes
cesses or techniques performed by persons or entities repre-
senting or under contract to the roofing contractor. The quality
control process is separate and distinct from the quality
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
assurance observation process.
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website.
1 3
ThispracticeisunderthejurisdictionofASTMCommitteeD08onRoofingand Available from Asphalt Roofing Manufacturer’s Association (ARMA), Public
Waterproofing and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D08.20 on Roofing Information Department, 1156 15th St., NW, Suite 900, Washington, DC 20005.
Membrane Systems. Available from National Roofing Contractor’s Association (NRCA), 10255 W.
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2021. Published November 2021. Originally Higgins Rd., Suite 600, Rosemont, IL 60018–5607.
approved in 2005. Last previous edition approved in 2014 as D7186 – 14. DOI: AvailablefromSinglePlyRoofingInstitute(SPRI),77RumfordAve.,Suite3B,
10.1520/D7186-14R21. Waltham, MA 02453.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D7186 − 14 (2021)
NRCA/SPFA QualityControlGuidelinesfortheApplication andexecutedinaccordancewithacceptedroofingpracticesand
4,6
of Sprayed Polyurethane Foam Roofing the contract documents.
NRCA Roofing Manual Current Edition
4.2 This practice is applied to full-time quality assurance
RCI Manual of Practice Roof, Exterior Wall, and Water-
observation of roofing projects involving the removal,
proofing Consulting, and Quality Assurance Observation,
construction, and repair and maintenance of low and steep-
Current Edition
slope roof systems and roofing-related accessories.
ARMA/NRCA Quality Control Guidelines for the Applica-
4.3 This practice establishes the role and responsibilities of
tion of Asphalt Shingle Roof Systems
those performing quality assurance observation and includes
General Installation Guidelines for Natural Quarried Roof-
qualifications of the quality assurance observer, as well as
ing Slate Current Edition
procedures for observation and documentation during the roof
National Slate Association Slate Roofs Design and Installa-
construction or repair process.
tion Manual, Current Edition
TRI/WSRCA Concrete and Clay Tile Design Criteria for
4.4 If used, nothing in this practice shall be interpreted as
Cold and Snow Regions, Current Edition precluding the use of all or parts of it while conducting
TRI/WSRCA Concrete and Clay Tile Design Criteria for full-time or part-time quality assurance observer (QAO) in-
Moderate Climate Regions, Current Edition
spection.
FRSA/TRI Concrete and Clay Tile Installation Manual,
5. The Role of the Quality Assurance Observer (QAO)
Current Edition
5.1 The presence of, or opinions expressed by, the QAO do
3. Terminology
not relieve the contractor or the manufacturer or other respon-
sible party of their contractual requirements. The information
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of building terms, see Ter-
provided by the QAO is for the benefit of the owner (or other
minology E631. For definitions of roofing and bituminous
client), and no warranty of roof performance, expressed or
materials terms, see Terminology D1079.
implied, is offered, neither should it be inferred based on the
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
quality assurance observations.
3.2.1 competent person, n—a person knowledgeable in
5.2 The QAO’s function is to provide on-site observation
common roofing installation practices, the roof system and
and reporting of the roof construction process in a clear,
materials specified for the project, and the quality assurance
accurate, and objective manner, using procedures indicated in
observation process.
this practice.
3.2.2 contract documents, n—agreement between owner
and contractor, conditions of the contract (general, 5.3 The QAO shall observe and record:
5.3.1 Thegeneralconditionsofthejobsite,roofareasunder
supplementary, and other conditions), drawings, specifications,
addenda, modifications, change order, construction change construction, and materials used in the construction process
and their storage;
directives, and written orders for minor changes in the work.
5.3.2 Pre-existing property damages, or property or material
3.2.3 quality assurance observation, n—the process of re-
damages that occur during the roof construction process;
cording and reporting the installation of materials and work
5.3.3 The condition of the substrate, and substrate
procedures of the installer or contractor in a roofing project for
preparation, repair, or replacement procedures;
the purpose of documenting compliance or noncompliance
5.3.4 The installation and attachment of any base sheets,
with the contract documents on a daily basis.
including the type of fastener or adhesive used, the fastening
3.2.4 roof designer, n—person or entity responsible for the
pattern, and spacing;
selection of the roof system and materials, and developing the
5.3.5 The installation and attachment of any vapor retarders
project specifications and construction detail drawings.
or air barriers, including the type of fastener or adhesive used,
the fastening pattern, and spacing;
4. Significance and Use
5.3.6 The installation and attachment of the insulation
4.1 Quality assurance observation of roofing projects is an
layer(s), recover or coverboard materials, including the type of
important process for determining if the removal, installation,
fastener or adhesive used, the fastening pattern, and spacing;
repair, or maintenance of roofing materials or systems follows
5.3.7 Theinstallationandattachmentoftheroofcoveringor
thescopeandintentofthecontractdocumentsandareinstalled
repair materials which comprise the finished roof system,
including the type of fastener or adhesive used, the fastening
pattern and spacing, as well as specific material quantities,
Available from Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA), 4400 Fair Lakes
temperatures,andmeasurementsappropriatetothetypeofroof
Ct., Suite 105, Fairfax, VA 22033.
system under construction;
Available from RCI, Inc., 1500 Sunday Dr., Suite 204, Raleigh, NC 27607,
5.3.8 The installation and detailing of the roof system
http://www.rci-online.org.
flashings at perimeter and roof penetration locations;
Available from Slate Roofing Contractors Association of North America, Inc.
(SRCA), 143 Forest Lane, Grove City, PA 16127, http://www.slateroofers.org.
5.3.9 The installation and detailing of the sheet metal
Available from National SlateAssociation, P. O. Box 172, Poultney,VT05764,
roofing accessories such as, but not limited to counterflashings,
http://slateassociation.org.
coping caps, joint covers, and edge and fascia metals;
Available from Tile Roofing Institute (TRI), 23607 Highway 99, Suite 2C,
Edmonds, WA 98026, http://tileroofing.org. 5.3.10 The installation of roof surfacings or coatings;
D7186 − 14 (2021)
5.3.11 Theinstallationoftemporaryweathersealsattheend 7.1.1 The contract documents, including scope of work,
of the workday or prior to inclement weather; specifications, roof plan, construction detail drawings,
5.3.12 The installation of any other roof components speci- addenda, and modifications;
fied in the project specifications; 7.1.2 The pre-bid and pre-construction conference minutes
5.3.13 The weather conditions that occur during the roof
and project meeting minutes;
assembly installation;
7.1.3 Stamped material submittals;
5.3.14 The crew size and foreman, and type of work being
7.1.4 The contractor’s original construction schedule and
performed on a given day; and
any revisions;
5.3.15 All visitors to the roof and their length of stay.
7.1.5 Appropriate manufacturer’s literature containing roof
system or material application requirements;
6. Qualifications of the Quality Assurance Observer
7.1.6 Construction change directives, change orders, and
6.1 Significance of Qualifications:
any field orders;
6.1.1 It is necessary that the person(s) performing quality
7.1.7 Written and photographic documentation prepared by
observation of the construction process understand the project
the QAO;
specifications and the specified roof system. Knowledge of
7.1.8 Other pertinent project correspondence; and
industry-accepted good roofing practices is critical to the
7.1.9 An emergency contact list for all pertinent project
success of the quality assurance observation process, which
personnel.
knowledge may be attained by achieving the ends described in
6.2.
8. Observation and Recording Procedures
6.1.2 A record of experience and training shall be main-
8.1 Documentation shall include both a written and photo-
tained by the QAO and submitted to the project file. An
graphic record for historical file purposes and shall be made
optional, sample form is located in Attachment A;
available to all parties involved in the roofing project. Project
6.1.3 A thorough understanding of the contract documents,
documentationmaybeginatthepre-constructionconferenceor
specifically the project specifications, construction detail
earlier and shall be continuous for the duration of the roofing
drawings, pre-bid and pre-construction conference minutes,
project. Written documentation shall be clear, concise, and
and any addenda to the roofing specifications is required; and
present an accurate, objective account of the roof construction
6.1.4 A thorough understanding of the type of roof system
project. Reports shall accurately describe the sequence of
specified including knowledge of the manufacturer’s require-
events, installation methods, workmanship by the contractor,
ments is required.
and problems encountered and corrective actions taken.
6.2 Technical qualifications of the QAO can be achieved by
8.2 Pre-Construction Damage Reporting—Thorough ex-
either 6.2.1 or 6.2.2:
amination of building surfaces, equipment, and other property
6.2.1 Completion of specialized training or certification in
items is necessary to document pre-existing damages prior to
quality assurance observation. The training or certification
commencing construction. An optional sample form is in-
program shall be specific to roofing quality assurance obser-
cluded in Attachment B.
vation and shall be administered by an industry-recognized
8.2.1 The report shall be distributed to all parties and shall
organization.
be generated, whenever possible, with the contractor’s repre-
6.2.2 Completion of a roof system application program
sentative and building personnel to indicate pre-existing dam-
provided by the roof system manufacturer specified.
age. It shall include photographic documentation of the areas
6.2.3 Inlieuoftherequirementsin6.2.1and6.2.2byeither:
viewed and damages noted. The report shall include, but is not
6.2.3.1 Completion of a minimum of 400 h of experience
limited to: inspection of the roof areas under contract; interior
performing quality assurance observation of roofing
spaces directly below the project areas; condition of related
construction, or 400 h of experience in technical services with
rooftopequipmentandadjacentbuilding(s);aswellasbuilding
roof system manufacturers and a minimum of 2000 h of trade
facades, pavement, and landscaping in staging areas.
experience in roof construction.
6.2.3.2 Completion of a minimum of 400 h of experience in
8.3 Material Delivery and Examination Reporting—Prior to
the generic type of roof system specified either performing
the start or during the initial staging of the project, and
quality assurance observation or roof construction, or technical
following the delivery of materials thereafter, the QAO shall
servi
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