Roofing Adhesive Winter Tips

In winter months and colder weather, it is essential to understand how temperature can influence the performance of roofing adhesive products. Here we offer cold weather advice for maintaining optimum product performance.

How to Store Adhesive Products in Cold Weather

Take the time to properly store adhesive products when not in use, especially overnight. Products should be stored between 5-25°C in a well-ventilated, covered area. Do not leave the products outside exposed to the elements. This will ensure the adhesive is ready to use and will produce expected coverage rates, even on colder days. If your products have been stored at temperatures outside of this bracket, you should try to get the adhesive to an ambient temperature before starting work.

Canister products need to be kept in a designated cage, stored on pallet and protected from the weather where possible.

Cold Temperatures Effect on Adhesive Properties

In colder temperatures, there will be noticeable changes in the flow properties of adhesives. The product’s viscosity (its ability to resist flow) can increase, with the adhesive becoming thicker than expected. This can impact the application and expected coverage of the product. To reduce this issue, products should be kept inside in a conditioned room, ideally at 10°C.

If canisters are stored at low temperatures for prolonged periods, this may affect how easily canister products can be sprayed. There is less pressure to force the thicker liquid into a spray. However, the coverage rate of canisters is still more consistent at lower temperatures compared to traditional roller- or bead-applied products.

Cold Temperatures Effect on Adhesive Cure-Times

The outside air temperature when applying the adhesive will also affect its cure-time – the amount of time for the product to achieve its full bond. Most manufactures quote information on data sheets at 20°C. Colder temperatures will reduce the chemical reaction rate, meaning the product will cure more slowly, this will also affect the tack development rate of adhesives. As a general rule, every 10°C decrease in temperature doubles the reaction time, meaning extended cure rates.

Adhesives should only be applied when the outside temperature is above 5°C, as they may not cure if used below 5°C.

Substrate Preparation in Cold Weather

With precipitation over winter months, products should only be applied in dry conditions. There are higher chances of moisture, such as rain or frost, appearing on the ground. Substrates need to be prepared appropriately, ensuring they are dry and free from any contamination before work can be commenced.

Please contact Apollo’s Technical department if you require any further information.

Our infographic below summarises the key points: