"Personally, I invested in a cheap infrared thermometer (nothing fancy, just a basic model from the hardware store), and it's made a noticeable difference."
Interesting you mention that thermometer... I've been debating grabbing one myself. Do you find it accurate enough even on bright sunny days? I've heard mixed things about infrared thermometers giving wonky readings if the surface is reflective or too bright.
And yeah, visual checks alone can definitely be hit or miss. Had a roof last summer that looked textbook perfect—no glossiness, no discoloration—but ended up cracking badly after winter. Makes me wonder if ambient conditions were messing with the weld more than I realized. Do you adjust your welding temps much based on weather conditions, or do you mostly stick to manufacturer's specs?
Roofing can feel like part science, part art sometimes... and maybe a little luck thrown in too, haha.
I've used infrared thermometers too, and honestly, they're handy but can be misleading. Bright sunlight or reflective TPO surfaces definitely throw off readings sometimes, especially cheaper models. I usually cross-check with a physical probe thermometer if I'm unsure. Also, manufacturer's specs are great guidelines, but I've found tweaking temps slightly based on ambient conditions—like wind or humidity—can make a big difference in weld quality. It's not always straightforward...
"I usually cross-check with a physical probe thermometer if I'm unsure."
That's interesting, but honestly, how practical is it to keep cross-checking temps on a busy job site? Seems like it'd slow things down. Maybe it's better to just get familiar with your equipment's quirks over time...
Seems like it'd slow things down. Maybe it's better to just get familiar with your equipment's quirks over time...
I get your point about slowing things down, but honestly, a quick temp check can save you headaches later. I used to rely solely on feel and experience, thinking I knew my gear inside out... until one summer day I scorched a seam pretty badly. Had to redo a whole section—talk about wasted time. Now, if I'm even slightly unsure, I'll pause for a quick check. Better safe than sorry, you know?
Yeah, I hear ya—checking temps might seem like a hassle at first, but trust me, it's way less annoying than patching up melted spots later. Been there, done that... not fun.
