When you look into building diagnostics and testing, you’ll likely come across the letters ASTM. The acronym stands for American Society for Testing Materials but is known most simply as ASTM. Organized in 1898, this international organization is one of the world’s largest standard development organizations for a variety of industries. For those unfamiliar with ASTM, read this blog for what the organization does and a brief description of its history.
The primary goal of ASTM is to improve the lives of millions each and every day through innovative business services, enhanced performance, and a deep understanding of commercial needs and consumer priorities.
ASTM Facts
ASTM is made up of about 30,000 members worldwide. Members come from 140 countries and use the best in science, engineering, and judgment to improve performance across industries. In total ASTM has more than 12,500 global standards and 120 years of operation. With all of this experience and collaboration, ASTM is one of the most widely recognized organizations for development standards. The organization is led by five strategic objectives including leadership, global technical expertise, standards and technical content development, services provider, and organizational vitality. These leading objectives help ASTM guide companies and organizations in better business practices.
How ASTM is Used
ASTM provides proof that processes and products are reliable. At Building Envelope Allies Testing and Consulting, we help businesses, organizations, and buildings meet ASTM standards so they can pass along the proof of superior development. ASTM standards impact quality and commerce in 90 industry sectors, all designed to help develop smarter standards for everyone.
The following ASTM standards are regularly used by our professionals at Building Envelope Allies. Use this guide to find out what these standards entail and how we apply them in our testing practices.
Water Leak Detection – ASTM E331 and E1105
Standard test method for water penetration of exterior windows, skylights, doors, and curtain walls by uniform static air pressure difference.
- This test method is intended primarily for determining the resistance to water penetration through such assemblies for compliance with specified performance criteria, but it may also be used to determine the resistance to penetration through the joints between the assemblies and the adjacent construction.
Air Chamber Testing – ASTM E1186
Standard practices for air leakage site detection in building envelopes and air barrier systems
- The techniques for air leakage site detection covered in these practices allow for a wide range of flexibility in the choice of techniques that are best suited for detecting various types of air leakage sites in specific situations.
Mock Wall Testing – ASTM E2357
Standard Test Method for Determining Air Leakage of Air Barrier Assemblies
- This method is intended to simulate the performance of various air barrier materials/accessories when combined into an assembly. Based upon the results of the measurements, this procedure then assigns an air leakage rating for the air barrier assembly.
Air Barrier Testing – ASTM E1827
Standard Test Methods for Determining Airtightness of Buildings Using an Orifice Blower Door
- These test methods produce results that characterize the airtightness of the building envelope. These results can be used to compare the relative airtightness of similar buildings, determine airtightness improvements from retrofit measures applied to an existing building, and predict air leakage.
Air Leakage Testing – ASTM E783
Standard Test Method for Field Measurement of Air Leakage Through Installed Exterior Windows and Doors
- This test method is a standard procedure for determining the air leakage characteristics of installed exterior windows and doors under specified static air pressure differences.
Water Leakage Standard Guide – ASTM E2128
Standard Guide for Evaluating Water Leakage of Building Walls
- This guide is intended to provide building professionals with a comprehensive methodology for evaluating water leakage through walls. It addresses the performance expectations and service history of a wall, the various components of a wall, and the interaction between these components and adjacent construction.
Air Leakage Rate Testing – ASTM E779
Standard Test Method for Determining Air Leakage Rate by Fan Pressurization
- This test method is intended to be used for measuring the airtightness of building envelopes of single-zone buildings. For the purpose of this test method, many multi-zone buildings can be treated as single-zone buildings by opening interior doors or by inducing equal pressures in adjacent zones.
For more information about these standards and how they apply to cost-saving energy solutions, reach out to one of our professional inspectors to get started. We are committed to providing the best service and guidance possible so you know your building is operating at peak efficiency. Schedule a consultation and get started today!