NRCA Modified Bitumen study plan

Explain how SBS and APP modifiers differ in behavior, softening point, and low-temperature flexibility, and state which application methods suit each

Identify the layers of a modified bitumen sheet (carrier, coating, granule surfacing, selvedge, release film) and describe the function of each

Compare polyester, fiberglass, and composite carriers on tear strength, elongation, and dimensional stability

Trace the manufacturing sequence from coating tank through calendar rolls to finished roll, and explain how thickness and weight tolerances are controlled

List the ASTM test methods used for granule adhesion, tensile strength, and low-temperature flexibility, and state what each result tells an installer

Describe the four membrane application methods (torch, hot asphalt, cold adhesive, self-adhered) and list the substrate and weather conditions each requires

Explain how deck type (steel, structural concrete, wood, lightweight insulating concrete, cementitious wood fiber) dictates substrate board selection and fastening pattern

Calculate the number of fasteners and plates per square for a given board layout and wind-uplift requirement

Identify acceptable substrate moisture and surface preparation steps before priming or adhering

Sequence the installation of vapor retarder, insulation, cover board, and base sheet, and state which layers must be mechanically attached versus adhered

State the standard side-lap and end-lap dimensions for base sheets and ply sheets and explain how slope changes the end-lap requirement

Demonstrate correct ply orientation and offset of end laps so no four corners meet at one point

Describe how to set a base sheet in hot asphalt, including mopping rate, asphalt temperature range, and evocation of the asphalt bleed-out at the lap

Explain the difference between a mechanically attached base sheet and a fully adhered base sheet, and when each is specified

Walk through the cold-adhesive base sheet process, including adhesive coverage rate, open time, and lap sealing

Describe torch application technique for cap sheet, including flame angle, distance, travel speed, and how to judge when the coating is properly fluxed at the lap

Explain how to torch a side lap and an end lap without scorching the granule surface or overheating the carrier

Install a base flashing, a cap flashing, and a counterflashing detail in sequence, stating the lap heights and fastening intervals at each stage

Detail a pipe boot, a drain, and a scupper penetration using the correct reinforcing ply and stripping technique

State the requirements for terminations at a wall, a curb, and a gravel stop, including termination bar spacing and sealant placement

List the PPE required for torch work and for hot asphalt work, and explain why each item is needed

Describe the fire watch procedure before, during, and after torch application, including the required post-work monitoring interval

Identify the common ignition sources on a roof (solvent adhesives, insulation facers, dust, debris in drains) and the control for each

Explain how to set up a torch assembly, check for leaks, and shut down safely, including cylinder storage and transport rules

State the emergency response steps for a small roofing fire and for a propane leak, and describe how to protect adjacent combustibles and openings

Explain how to install a self-adhered base sheet and cap sheet at a wall flashing and at a penetration, including primer use and roll pressure

Describe how to strip in a penetration over a completed membrane without compromising the existing plies

Detail expansion joint, parapet, and roof-to-wall transition details and state where a slip sheet or a movement joint is required

Compare the flashing details required for torch, hot asphalt, cold adhesive, and self-adhered systems and note where they diverge

Explain how to terminate a membrane at a reglet and at a termination bar, and state the sealant and fastener requirements for each

List the common defects of modified bitumen roofs (wrinkles, fishmouths, blisters, bare spots, inadequate lap, ridging, ponding) and state the cause and repair for each

Describe how to perform a seam probe and a visual inspection, and what constitutes a failing lap

Explain how to prepare and patch a blister, a puncture, and a failed lap so the repair outlasts the surrounding membrane

State the code and standard requirements for fire classification, wind uplift, slope, and drainage that apply to a modified bitumen roof

Describe how to document an inspection with photographs, a roof plan, and a written deficiency log

Complete two full-length timed practice exams and score each by domain to find remaining weak areas

Re-drill the two lowest-scoring domains with targeted review and rewritten notes

Recite from memory the lap dimensions, asphalt temperature range, termination bar spacing, and fire watch interval

Rehearse the four application methods aloud, explaining each as if instructing an apprentice

Review all previously written deliverables and correct any errors found