Exam Cheat Sheet · Quick Reference
Oklahoma Roofing Contractor Commercial Endorsement
Oklahoma · PSI Services Contractor
Verified, not estimated. Every figure below is drawn from the official exam structure we maintain — question counts, passing standard and topic weighting. Practice questions are grounded in the source law with statute citations. We omit any figure we can't verify rather than guess at it.
Total questions
50
Passing score
70%
Exam time
150 min
Administered by
PSI Services Contractor
Format
Reference materials allowed
Oklahoma State Portion 50 questions
General Roofing Knowledge
5 Q · 10%
Roof system types: low-slope vs. steep-slope classifications and slope thresholdsMembrane roof system components: insulation, roof membrane, and surfacingSteep-slope roof covering types: asphalt shingles, clay and concrete tile, slate, metal shingles, wood shakes and shinglesIBC fire classification of roof assemblies: Class A, B, and C ratings and requirementsIBC wind resistance requirements for roof coverings and edge securementRoof drainage design: primary drains, secondary overflow drains, scuppers, and guttersUnderlayment requirements by roof covering type and wind speedReroofing requirements: roof recover vs. roof replacement conditions and restrictions
Low Slope Roofing
15 Q · 30%
Roof membrane types and attachment methods (BUR, polymer-modified bitumen, EPDM, thermoplastic, liquid-applied, SPF)Roof deck types and design requirements for low-slope assembliesRigid board insulation types, R-value principles, and multilayer installation guidelinesSlope, drainage, and ponding water requirements for low-slope systemsAir and vapor retarder design and condensation controlMembrane flashing, base flashing, and counterflashing at walls and penetrationsArchitectural metal components for low-slope roofs (copings, perimeter edge metal, gravel stops, expansion joints)Reroofing procedures: evaluation, re-cover versus replacement, and building code requirements
Architectural Metal Roofing Systems and Sheet Metal Flashing
9 Q · 18%
Metal types and properties for roofing applications (aluminum, copper, galvanized steel, Galvalume, stainless steel, zinc)Metal panel roof system classifications: architectural vs. structuralSeam types and configurations (flat seam, standing seam, batten seam, snap-lock, mechanical seam)Panel profiles, substrates, and underlayment requirements for architectural metal panel systemsSheet metal flashing types and installation: copings, counterflashing, drip edge, perimeter edge metal, and through-wall flashingThermal movement, oil canning, and expansion/contraction provisions in metal roof systemsRoof drainage design: gutters, downspouts, scuppers, and sizing calculationsDissimilar metals, galvanic corrosion, and material compatibility
Moisture and Energy Control
6 Q · 12%
Thermal resistance concepts (R-value, U-factor, k-value, C-factor) and calculation methodsRigid board insulation types, properties, and selection criteria for commercial roofingVapor retarder need determination, placement, and dew-point analysisAir retarder functions, performance requirements, and code compliance (IECC, ASHRAE 90.1)Condensation control strategies for low-slope roof assembliesCondensation control and ventilation strategies for steep-slope roof assembliesThermal bridging effects of mechanical fasteners and insulation gaps on assembly R-valueRadiant barriers: types, installation locations, and effect on roofing materials
Repairs and Reroofing
8 Q · 16%
Evaluation criteria for re-covering versus tear-off and replacementRoof system inspection procedures (surface condition, flashings, penetrations, drainage, moisture)Nondestructive moisture evaluation techniques and core cut analysisBuilding code requirements for reroofing (IBC limitations on re-cover and replacement)Roof deck and structural substrate assessment during reroofingFlashing requirements and decisions during re-cover and replacement projectsSystem-specific reroofing considerations by roof type (asphalt shingle, tile, slate, metal panel, membrane, SPF)Slate repair methods (nail-and-bib method, replacement slate selection and fastening)Asbestos-containing materials (ACM) identification, responsibility, and liability during reroofingHidden conditions in roof assemblies (buried conduit, wiring, plumbing) and NEC clearance requirementsRe-cover design considerations (fire resistance, wind-uplift resistance, added weight, condensation control)Retrofit framing systems for metal panel re-cover applications
+4 more
Safety
7 Q · 14%
Fall protection requirements for roofing work (low-slope and steep roofs)Personal fall arrest systems: components, specifications, and proper useGuardrail systems and safety net systems: installation criteria and load requirementsWarning line systems and safety monitoring systems for roofing operationsLadders and stairways: safe use, inspection, and fall protection requirementsScaffold safety: capacity, platform construction, and fall protectionPersonal protective equipment (PPE): selection, use, and employer responsibilitiesFire protection and prevention: fire extinguisher requirements, flammable liquid storage, and ignition hazard control
Key Distinctions
Nailing into wood plank/board deckvsNailing into plywood deck less than ¾ in. thick
Nails must penetrate at least ¾ in. into wood plank or board decks, while on plywood or other acceptable wood panel decks less than ¾ in. thick nails must extend a minimum of ⅛ in. through the underside.
NRCA Roofing Manual: Steep-slope Roof Systems (2025), Section 4.2—Asphalt Shingle Roof System Design and Installation (Fasteners)Single-layer mechanically attached underlaymentvsDouble-layer mechanically attached underlayment
IBC 2024/IRC 2024 prescribe a single layer for asphalt shingle roofs on slopes of 4:12 or greater outside high-wind regions, and a double layer for slopes from 2:12 to 4:12 outside high-wind regions.
NRCA Roofing Manual: Steep-slope Roof Systems (2025), Section 3.2—Underlayment Design and InstallationNew construction minimum design slopevsReroofing (re-cover or tear-off and replacement)
New construction must meet prescriptive minimum slopes (e.g., ¼:12 for SPF), while for reroofing, codes do not require minimum design slope provided there is positive roof drainage.
NRCA Roofing Manual: Membrane Roof Systems, Chapter 2, Page 84ASTM D3161 wind-resistance classificationvsASTM D7158 wind-resistance classification
D3161 classifies shingles by test wind velocity passed (Class A = 60 mph, Class D = 90 mph, Class F = 110 mph), while D7158 classifies by basic wind speed withstood (Class D = 90 mph, Class G = 120 mph, Class H = 150 mph).
NRCA Roofing Manual: Steep-slope Roof Systems (2025), Section 4.2—Wind Resistance (ASTM D3161)Closed-cell SPF air retarder under ASHRAE 90.1vsClosed-cell SPF air retarder under IECC
ASHRAE 90.1 deemed-to-comply criteria are 2.0 lbs./ft.³ density at a minimum 1 in. thickness, while IECC criteria are 1.5 lbs./ft.³ density at a minimum 1½ in. thickness.
NRCA Roofing Manual: Membrane Roof Systems (2023), Page 116Structural metal panel roof assembly vapor retardervsArchitectural metal panel roof system vapor retarder
In structural metal panel assemblies the vapor retarder is typically a component integrated with the batt insulation below the panels, whereas in architectural metal panel systems it is typically loose-laid or adhered to the roof deck or substrate.
NRCA Roofing Manual: Metal Panel and SPF Roof Systems (2024), Page 65Low-slope roof fall protection (slope ≤ 4 in 12)vsSteep roof fall protection
On low-slope roofs 6 ft or more above lower levels, §1926.501(b)(10) allows guardrails, safety nets, personal fall arrest, or a combination of warning line and safety monitoring system; guardrails with toeboards are specifically required for steep roofs under (b)(11).
29 CFR 1926, §1926.501(b)(10)Guardrail top rail strengthvsMidrail/intermediate member strength
Top rails must withstand at least 200 lbs applied within 2 in. of the top edge in any outward or downward direction (§1926.502(b)(3)), while midrails and intermediate members are held to the 150-lb requirement under (b)(5).
29 CFR 1926, §1926.502(b)(3)Flat seams sealed with sealantvsFlat seams that must be soldered
Flat seam joints may be sealed with sealant except where the pitch is less than 3 in. per ft., where they must be soldered; in snow areas all seams subject to flooding from ice damming must be soldered regardless of pitch.
SMACNA Architectural Sheet Metal Manual (7th ed.), Flat Seam Roofs, Figure 6-3Built-up roof on nonnailable deckvsBuilt-up roof on nailable deck
A four-ply cold-applied BUR on a nonnailable deck requires selection of primer, ply sheet, and adhesive, whereas nailable deck configurations require mechanical attachment.
NRCA Roofing Manual: Membrane Roof Systems (2023), Chapter 1, Page 20Required re-cover preparation tasksvsOptional re-cover preparation tasks
Removing badly curled/lifted shingles, debris and loose material, and oil/contaminants are required before a shingle re-cover, while removal of hip and ridge shingles is optional.
NRCA Roofing Manual: Steep-slope Roof Systems (2025), Chapter 6—Reroofing, Section 6.5Copper and stainless steel through-wall flashingvsAluminum through-wall flashing
Copper and stainless steel are the common metals for through-wall flashings, while aluminum should be avoided in masonry walls because of the wall's high alkaline content and corrosion risk.
NRCA Roofing Manual: Architectural Metal Flashing and Condensation and Air Leakage Control—2022, Page 116 (Chapter 3, Section 3.8)Standard-size (36-in.) strip shingle exposurevsMetric-size (39⅝-in.) strip shingle exposure
Typical exposure is 5 in. for standard-sized strip shingles and 5⅝ in. for metric-sized strip shingles.
NRCA Roofing Manual: Steep-slope Roof Systems (2025), Section 4.2—Asphalt Shingle Roof System Design and Installation (Exposure and Appearance)Key Terms
Competent person OSHA 1926 CFR 29, Page 31
One who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions that are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them (no specific degree, experience, or certificate required).
Daily excavation inspection 29 CFR 1926, §1926.651(k)(1)
A competent person's inspection made for evidence of possible cave-ins, indications of failure of protective systems, hazardous atmospheres, or other hazardous conditions, conducted prior to the start of work, as needed through the shift, and after every rainstorm or other hazard-increasing occurrence.
Warning line system 29 CFR 1926, §1926.502(f)(1)(i)
A low-slope roof fall protection component that, when mechanical equipment is not being used, must be erected not less than 6 feet from the roof edge.
First aid kit inspection interval OSHA 1926 CFR 29, §1926.50(d)(2)
Kit contents must be checked by the employer before being sent out on each job and at least weekly on each job so expended items are replaced.
Danger sign OSHA 1926 CFR 29, Page 201
A sign having red as the predominating color for the upper panel, black outline on the borders, and a white lower panel for additional sign wording.
Emergency action plan (10 or fewer employees) OSHA 1926 CFR 29, §1926.35(e)(3), Page 33
For employers with 10 or fewer employees the plan may be communicated orally and no written plan need be maintained.
Ice barrier membrane recover exception IBC 2024 Section 1512.2, Exception (2018 ed.: Section 1511.3)
Where an existing roof assembly includes an ice barrier membrane adhered to the roof deck, that membrane is permitted to remain in place and be covered with an additional layer of ice barrier membrane in accordance with Section 1507.
Water and ice-dam protection membrane NRCA Roofing Manual: Steep-slope Roof Systems (2025), Section 3.2—Water and Ice-dam Protection Underlayment
A membrane applied starting at the eaves that extends upslope to a point a minimum of 24 inches—measured in the level plane—inside the building's exterior wall line.
Taped deck underlayment application NRCA Roofing Manual: Steep-slope Roof Systems (2025), Section 3.2—Underlayment Design and Installation (Taped Deck)
An application in which minimum 4-inch-wide ASTM D1970-compliant self-adhering flashing tape is applied over all roof sheathing joints, then covered with a single layer of mechanically attached underlayment.
Laminated shingle NRCA Roofing Manual: Steep-slope Roof Systems (2025), Section 4—Asphalt Shingles (Laminated Shingles)
An asphalt shingle with additional material laminated to strips to create random thicknesses, also called a 'dimensional' or 'architectural' shingle.
Synthetic sheet underlayment NRCA Roofing Manual: Steep-slope Roof Systems (2025), Section 3.1—Underlayment Materials (Synthetic Sheets—Characteristics)
Polyolefin-based (polyethylene/polypropylene) underlayment characterized by high tensile strength, light weight, long-term UV resistance, low or no moisture absorption, and low shrinkage and wrinkling.
Hand-tabbing NRCA Roofing Manual: Steep-slope Roof Systems (2025), Section 4.2—Attachment of shingles on very steep slopes
Applying asphalt roof cement in spots approximately 1 inch in diameter between shingle courses; NRCA recommends six nails plus hand-tabbing on slopes of 18:12 and greater.
Plain (flat-slab) tile NRCA Roofing Manual: Steep-slope Roof Systems (2025), Section 4—Clay and Concrete Tile (Plain Tile)
Noninterlocking clay or concrete tile laid in double coverage similar to asphalt shingles, requiring head lap customarily of 2 inches or 3 inches.
Interlayment felt (wood shake) NRCA Roofing Manual: Steep-slope Roof Systems (2025), Wood Shake and Wood Shingle Roof Systems, Chapter 1—Roof Assembly Configurations
A felt course included with every course of wood shake over continuous sheathing to complete three layers of water-shedding coverage throughout the field of the roof.
Built-in gutter front edge rule SMACNA Architectural Sheet Metal Manual (7th ed.), Page 1.16
The highest point on the front of a built-in gutter must be a minimum of 1 in. (25 mm) lower than the back edge so overflow spills outward rather than into the building.
Tension precision leveling NRCA Roofing Manual: Metal Panel and SPF Roof Systems (2024), Pages 95-96 (Chapter 4, Section 4.4—Oil Canning)
A mechanical operation stretching coil metal beyond its yield point to provide a level surface less prone to oil canning; NRCA suggests specifying it after secondary coil operations such as slitting of a master coil.
Machine-closed standing seam caution SMACNA Architectural Sheet Metal Manual (7th ed.), Portable Roll Formers section
Seams closed on site with portable roll formers/seam closers may be so tight that thermal expansion cannot be accommodated within the seam.
Cementitious wood fiber panel joint tolerance NRCA Roofing Manual: Membrane Roof Systems, Chapter 2, Page 87
Elevation differences exceeding 1/8 inch between adjacent panels are unacceptable; uneven joints of 1/8 inch or more should be grouted with grout feathered to a slope of 1/8 inch per foot.
Raised edge nailer (wall plate) SMACNA Architectural Sheet Metal Manual (7th ed.), Chapter 2, General Design Guidelines
A minimum 2 × 6 in. (50 × 152 mm) nailer at built-up roof edges used to control drainage and keep gravel-stops out of standing water, preferably sloped toward the roof side.
Expansion batten (flat seam roof) SMACNA Architectural Sheet Metal Manual (7th ed.), Flat Seam Roofs, Figure 6-3
A separator 1⅝ in. tall, 3 in. wide across the top and tapered on the vertical sides, used to divide flat seam roofs exceeding 30 ft into sections of maximum 30 ft width.
Formulas to Know
Total low-slope roof area in squares (positive method)
Sum of rectangle plan areas (length × width) in sq ft ÷ 100 = squares; a low-slope roof has no slope factor to apply.Base sheet rolls for one ply
Total roof sq ft ÷ 100 sq ft net coverage per roll, rounded up to the next whole roll.4 × 8 ft insulation boards (bottom layer)
Total roof sq ft ÷ 32 sq ft per board, rounded up to the next whole board.Insulation fasteners
Number of boards × fasteners per board (e.g., 5 or 6 per board as printed).Surfacing aggregate weight
Squares × 300 lb per square for slag, or × 400 lb per square for gravel.Galvanized sheets (36 × 120 in.) for flashing/gravel stop
Flat metal area = linear ft × (girth in inches ÷ 12); sheets = area sq ft ÷ 30 sq ft per sheet, rounded up.Parapet cap flashing length (all edges except front)
Right side + left side + (back of main area outside the wing = main width − wing width) + 2 × wing sides + wing back; the front runs gravel stop and gutter instead.Cant strip total length
Parapet linear ft + (number of equipment curbs × 4 sides × side length).Fall to drain with tapered insulation
Run in ft × slope per ft (e.g., 24 ft × ¼ in./ft = 6 in. of fall from high point to drain).Drain sump size
Drain bowl diameter + 24 in. (e.g., 12 in. bowl → 36 in. × 36 in.; 18 in. bowl → 42 in. round); recommended sump slope is 1½:12 for SPF.Pitched roof drainage design area
Plan area × slope factor from Table 1-1 (factor = 1.20 for a pitch of 9 to 11 in. per ft).