Using Modified ASTM E 1105 to Evaluate the Resistance of Masonry Barrier, Mass and Skin Walls to Rain

Abstract

Test procedures are proposed to evaluate masonry barrier, mass and skin wall systems using ASTM E 1105, Test Method for Field Determination of Water Penetration of Installed Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls, and Doors by Uniform or Cyclic static Air Pressure Difference. Variables involved in these tests, such as water flow rates, size and positioning of spray grids and duration of testing are also reviewed. Studies comparing the penetration rates at different flow rates and at different air pressures are reviewed. Systematic procedures are presented for masking off portions of walls in order to determine significant sources of leakage. Further procedures are outlined to isolate sources of leakage after areas of leakage are found. Several case studies are reviewed on different types of wall systems. Each of the case studies includes a discussion of the problems found and how ASTM E 1105 tests were used to determine the leakage sources.