Self-Adhering Underlayment Holds Fast Despite Hurricanes, Says Tarco

Fast90 Protects Even without Tiles

Tarco announced today that its self-adhering membranes provide temporary protection for homes awaiting tiles, even as Hurricanes such as Wilma winds blow past it. LeakBarrier Fast90™ is a peel-and-stick underlayment for tile roofing introduced by Tarco in 2005. Its bottom-side tackiness is the result of an SBS-modified asphalt coating that serves as both waterproofing agent and adhesive.

"Last year was a tough one for South Florida," says Steve Ratcliff, President of Tarco. "Yet, we had reports that homes in the path of Wilma – covered only with Fast90 -- survived its fury without damage to the underlayment. That shows Fast90 can function temporarily as a primary roofing system, providing outstanding protection against hurricane force winds – with or without tiles above."

Although strong winds can uplift tiles and even asphalt shingles, Fast90’s "mod-bit" coating adheres tightly to the roof deck. Similar to tried-and-true 90-pound felts, Fast90 is made from a premium quality organic mat that has proven to be an effective moisture barrier beneath tile roof systems. But there is one major difference between the two: No hot mopping of asphalt is required for Fast90 installation. The bottom side and the side-lap seam have a self-adhering compound of high-tack, SBS-modified asphalt, which is protected by a release film for easy installation.

According to Ratcliff, one roofer began using Fast90 in early 2005 because of its greater exposure limits compared to other products. Facing unpredictable delivery times for tiles – and an approaching hurricane season – he installed Fast90 on several new residential homes.

"Before Hurricane Wilma blew through Palm Beach, this roofer had no idea how well the Fast90 underlayment would perform under high winds, and especially under the extreme high wind speeds of Wilma," says Ratcliff.

The product was developed for use underneath tiles, which normally shield the underlayment from the direct effects of wind and weather. However, when replacement materials are in short supply, the underlayment may have to serve as the primary roof barrier for days, weeks or months. Fortunately, Fast90 has a mineral-surfaced topside, which protects the underlayment from ultraviolet radiation and provides traction to roofers.

"This product was specially designed for tile roofing and is the only product of its kind on the market with a patent pending," concludes Ratcliff.

For more information, Call Toll Free 1-800-365-4506 or email tarco@tarcoroofing.com. Address: TARCO, One Information Way, Suite 225, Little Rock, AR 72202. Phone: 501-945-4506, Fax: 501-945-7718.