ASTM D3462

ASTM D3462, Standard Specification for Asphalt Shingles Made from Glass Felt and Surfaced with Mineral Granules, is the main product standard for asphalt shingles in the United States. Almost all asphalt shingles sold in North America today use a glass-fibre (fiberglass) mat, so D3462 covers the bulk of the market. The active version listed by ASTM is D3462/D3462M-25.

What it covers

The standard covers shingles made from glass felt that is coated on both sides with asphalt and surfaced on the weather side with mineral granules. It sets requirements for the product as manufactured, before installation, including:

• minimum masses (such as the mass of asphalt and of the overall shingle)
• physical properties such as tear strength, fastener pull-through resistance and pliability
• dimensions and tolerances

Shingles meeting D3462 are designed for a headlap of at least 51 mm (2 in) and must either have a factory-applied self-sealing adhesive or be designed to lock together during installation. According to NRCA, the standard also requires at least Class A fire resistance and Class A (60 mph) wind resistance under ASTM D3161.

What it does not cover

D3462 does not set requirements for performance after installation or in service. Long-term weathering, hail resistance and higher wind ratings are covered by separate standards such as UL 2218 and ASTM D7158.

Code use

The International Building Code and International Residential Code reference ASTM D3462 as a minimum requirement for asphalt shingles. Product packaging and data sheets normally state compliance with it.

Related standards

• ASTM D225 covered organic-felt shingles and was withdrawn in 2012 because organic shingles are no longer made in North America.
• ASTM D3018 is a less common product standard that covers Class A fire-resistant shingles in self-sealing and non-self-sealing types.
• In Canada, asphalt shingle product requirements are in the CSA A123 series.
• In Europe, bitumen shingles are specified under EN 544.