(440) 307-2060
ITEL Laboratories: The Industry Standard for Roofing and Construction Testing
When it comes to ensuring the quality, durability, and safety of roofing materials and construction products, objective, rigorous testing is key. This is where ITEL Laboratories plays a vital role in the building industry. As a nationally recognized independent testing facility, ITEL Laboratories has become a trusted name for manufacturers, contractors, and homeowners looking for verified performance of their roofing and construction products.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what ITEL Laboratories is, the services they provide, why their testing is important, and how their certifications and approvals impact the roofing and construction market.
What Is ITEL Laboratories?
ITEL Laboratories is an independent, third-party testing laboratory specializing in evaluating roofing materials, building components, and related products. Founded over 40 years ago, ITEL has grown to be one of the leading facilities in the United States for performance testing and certification in the construction industry.
Based in Cleveland, Ohio, ITEL serves manufacturers, builders, architects, and contractors nationwide. Their testing capabilities include physical, chemical, environmental, and fire testing to meet building codes and industry standards.
Why Are Independent Testing Labs Like ITEL Laboratories Important?
The roofing and construction markets have seen huge innovation and diversification in materials and installation methods. From asphalt shingles and metal panels to advanced synthetic underlayments and ventilation products, manufacturers need to prove their products meet strict performance standards.
ITEL Laboratories provides this independent validation. Their impartial, scientifically sound testing ensures that products:
- Meet or exceed industry standards and building codes
- Are safe, durable, and reliable in real-world conditions
- Perform as advertised under extreme weather and environmental stresses
This protects homeowners and builders from inferior materials that could lead to costly repairs, safety hazards, or failed inspections.
ITEL Laboratories Services and Testing Capabilities
ITEL offers a broad range of testing services tailored specifically for roofing, building materials, and construction components. Some of their key services include:
1. Wind Uplift Testing
Wind resistance is a critical factor for roofing materials, especially in areas prone to hurricanes or strong storms. ITEL performs ASTM-standard wind uplift tests that simulate intense wind pressures on roofing assemblies to ensure shingles, membranes, and fasteners hold securely.
2. Fire Resistance Testing
Fire safety is paramount in roofing and construction. ITEL conducts fire testing, including:
- ASTM E108 (Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Roof Coverings)
- UL 790 (Standard for Fire Tests of Roof Coverings)
These tests evaluate how roofing materials perform against fire spread, ignition, and flame penetration.
3. Impact Resistance Testing
To determine how well roofing materials resist hail and other impacts, ITEL performs tests like the UL 2218 impact resistance test, which rates shingles from Class 1 (lowest) to Class 4 (highest resistance).
4. Water Penetration and Leak Testing
ITEL evaluates materials’ ability to prevent water infiltration under simulated rain and wind-driven conditions.
5. Material Durability and Weathering
Simulating long-term exposure to sunlight, moisture, and temperature changes, ITEL tests the aging, flexibility, and integrity of roofing materials.
6. Adhesion and Fastener Testing
Testing how well roofing materials adhere to substrates and how effectively fasteners hold under stress.
7. Thermal and Energy Efficiency Testing
ITEL also evaluates materials for energy efficiency, insulation values, and thermal reflectivity.
ITEL Laboratories Certifications and Approvals
One of the most valuable outcomes of ITEL’s testing is their certification reports and product approvals. These documents serve as proof that a roofing product or component meets strict quality and performance standards.
Common Certifications and Approvals from ITEL:
- Miami-Dade County Product Control Approval: Crucial for roofing products used in hurricane-prone zones, especially South Florida.
- Florida Building Code Approval: Required for many products in Florida’s strict building environment.
- UL Certification: For fire, impact, and performance tests recognized nationwide.
- ASTM Compliance: Demonstrating adherence to standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials.
- ICC-ES Reports: Some tests support reports from the International Code Council Evaluation Service.
These certifications provide confidence to contractors, architects, building inspectors, and homeowners that the materials used are tested to withstand demanding conditions.
ITEL Laboratories in the Roofing Industry
Roofing manufacturers often submit their products to ITEL Laboratories for testing to qualify for warranties and building code approvals. Here’s how ITEL impacts the roofing industry:
1. Helping Manufacturers Gain Market Access
For roofing products to be accepted in many states and municipalities, passing ITEL tests and receiving approvals is a must. This allows manufacturers to sell their shingles, membranes, vents, and accessories in regulated markets.
2. Supporting Warranty and Insurance Requirements
Insurance companies often require roofing products to have proven wind, fire, and impact resistance verified by labs like ITEL. This affects homeowners’ eligibility for insurance and claims after damage.
3. Assisting Contractors in Choosing Quality Materials
Roofing contractors rely on ITEL certifications to select durable, high-performance materials that meet or exceed code requirements, ensuring customer satisfaction.
How Does ITEL Laboratories Compare to Other Testing Labs?
While ITEL Laboratories is one of the most respected labs in the U.S., it is not the only one offering construction product testing. Other notable labs include Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Intertek, and FM Global.
What sets ITEL apart is their:
- Specialization in roofing materials with decades of focused experience.
- Wide range of performance tests tailored to industry needs.
- Reputation for impartiality and accuracy.
- Strong ties to local and national building code organizations.
What Should Homeowners and Contractors Know About ITEL Laboratories?
For Homeowners:
- When choosing roofing materials, ask your contractor if the products have ITEL testing or equivalent certifications.
- Products tested by ITEL come with verified durability and safety, reducing the risk of premature roof failure.
- Check your roofing warranty to see if ITEL certification is required.
For Contractors:
- Using ITEL-certified products can help you meet local code requirements easily and avoid inspection delays.
- ITEL testing reports can be valuable documentation during insurance claims or warranty disputes.
- Partnering with manufacturers who use ITEL testing adds credibility to your roofing installations.
How to Verify ITEL Laboratories Certification?
Manufacturers typically list ITEL certifications on product packaging, technical datasheets, or websites. ITEL also provides searchable databases on their website where you can confirm if a product is tested and approved.
Before starting your roofing project, always verify:
- The product name and model number.
- The scope and type of testing completed.
- The validity dates of certifications.
Case Study: ITEL Laboratories’ Role in a Roofing Manufacturer’s Success
One well-known roofing brand credits ITEL Laboratories testing for helping them obtain Miami-Dade County approval, opening markets in hurricane-prone Florida. The rigorous wind uplift and impact tests conducted by ITEL allowed the manufacturer to confidently offer a 50-year warranty backed by verified performance data.
This case highlights the critical role ITEL plays in product acceptance and market competitiveness.
ITEL Laboratories and Sustainability
While ITEL primarily focuses on performance and safety, their testing also supports sustainability by:
- Validating materials designed for longer lifespans, reducing waste.
- Testing energy-efficient roofing components that contribute to lower heating/cooling costs.
- Supporting innovation in recycled or environmentally friendly roofing products.
The Future of Roofing Testing and ITEL Laboratories
With climate change increasing the severity of storms and weather events, roofing testing is more important than ever. ITEL Laboratories continues to expand their capabilities, including:
- Advanced impact simulations for larger hail sizes.
- Enhanced thermal performance testing for green roofs and solar integration.
- Digital data reporting and remote inspection technologies.
Manufacturers and contractors who partner with ITEL stay ahead in offering reliable, code-compliant products.
Conclusion: Trust ITEL Laboratories for Roofing and Construction Excellence
When it comes to roofing and construction materials, not all products are created equal. ITEL Laboratories plays a vital role in verifying the performance, safety, and durability of these products, protecting homeowners, contractors, and manufacturers alike.
Choosing ITEL-tested products means you’re investing in quality materials that meet stringent industry standards and local building codes. Whether you’re a homeowner selecting a new roof or a contractor specifying materials for a project, understanding the value of ITEL Laboratories’ certifications can help you make confident, informed decisions.
About S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC
If you’re in Northeast Ohio or the surrounding areas and need expert roofing services backed by quality materials tested by ITEL Laboratories and other industry leaders, S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC is here to help. We specialize in roofing replacements, repairs, and new installations using trusted, certified products for maximum durability and satisfaction.
Contact us today for a free roof inspection and estimate!
