ASTM D225

ASTM D225, Standard Specification for Asphalt Shingles (Organic Felt) Surfaced With Mineral Granules, was the ASTM International product standard for asphalt shingles made with an organic felt mat. The last edition was D225-07. ASTM withdrew the standard in 2012 without a replacement.

What it covered

Organic shingles were made from a felt of cellulose fibres (paper, rag or wood fibre) saturated and coated with asphalt and surfaced with mineral granules on the weather side. D225 set requirements for these products as manufactured and called for a headlap of at least 51 mm (2 in).

Organic shingles were heavier and more flexible in cold weather than early fiberglass shingles, and for decades they were common in the northern United States and Canada. They absorbed more asphalt, however, and were more prone to curling, blistering and moisture absorption over time. They also generally had lower fire ratings than fiberglass shingles.

Why it was withdrawn

Fiberglass-mat shingles, specified under ASTM D3462, steadily replaced organic shingles. Most large manufacturers stopped making organic shingles in the mid-to-late 2000s, and Building Products of Canada, the last North American producer, ended production in 2011. With no products left to specify, ASTM withdrew D225 in 2012.

Why it still matters

Many roofs installed before about 2010 still have organic shingles. Inspectors, insurers and roofers may see D225 on older product documentation, warranty paperwork and building plans. Older codes and specifications also refer to it. When an existing organic roof is repaired, exact matching products are no longer made, so repairs usually use fiberglass shingles of a similar appearance.