The NRCA Roofing Manual: Membrane Roof Systems – 2023 provides comprehensive coverage of low-slope membrane roofing systems, including:

• 210 construction details, spanning a variety of membrane systems: built-up roofing (BUR), polymer-modified bitumen, liquid-applied, EPDM, and thermoplastic systems.
• Guidance on roof decks, air and vapor retarders, rigid board insulation, roof membranes, fasteners, surfacing, accessories, roof system configurations, and re-coverings.
• A restructured format featuring an initial chapter of roof system configurations, listing components with direct references to relevant manual sections.
• Detailed best industry practices, technical guidance on design, materials, installation, drainage, waterproofing, maintenance, and quality control

• Design & Best Practices
  The manual outlines current industry standards for materials and membrane types—whether built-up (BUR), polymer-modified bitumen (mod-bit), liquid-applied, thermoset (e.g., EPDM), or thermoplastic (PVC, TPO)—enabling architects and engineers to confidently specify systems that meet performance criteria and comply with ASHRAE 90.1, I-Codes, and industry standards. 
• Construction Detailing
  Featuring 210 construction details, it provides field-tested drawings and specifications for roof decks, insulation, vapor retarders, surfacing, flashing, accessories, and recovers—essential for contractors on the job site.
• Installation & Attachment
  The manual goes in-depth on attachment methods—not just fasteners, but adhesives, welding, and self-adhering systems. It includes improved guidance for wind uplift requirements and substrate preparation, making installations more reliable and code-compliant. 
• Energy & Code Compliance
  With updates reflecting the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code and ASHRAE thermal standards, the manual informs energy-efficient roof design, including best practices for insulation, tapered systems, and reflective surfaces. 
• Maintenance, Leak Prevention & Testing
  Recommendations include water-testing of waterproofing—especially for green roofs—drainage slopes to avoid ponding over 48 hours, and leak isolation techniques, contributing to long-term performance

The NRCA Membrane Roof Systems – 2023 volume (R‑157) is widely referenced in contractor licensing across multiple states. It focuses on low‑slope roof decks, membranes (built‑up, polymer‑modified bitumen, EPDM, TPO, PVC, etc.), insulation, fasteners, surfacing, flashings, and includes 210 detailed construction drawings.

• Roofing professionals: Considered the go-to reference for membrane roofing techniques and standards.
• Licensing candidates: Frequently cited in state roofing license exams.
• Educational supplement: Often used alongside practice exams and training modules in preparation for certifications.