1. Scope
1.1 This specification is limited to flexible sheet materials that are intended to be mechnically attached and are generally installed behind the cladding system in exterior walls. 1.2 This specification is limited to the evaluation of materials and does not address installed performance. Although the fastening practices (type of fastener, fastening schedule, and so forth) may affect the installed function of these materials, they are not included in this specification. 1.3 This specification does not address integration of the water-resistive barrier with other wall elements. The topic is addressed in more detail in Practice E 2112 and Guide E 2266. 1.4 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in nonconformance with the standard. 1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and to determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
This specification fills a standards void and is expected to be adopted by governmnet agencies. There are a number of attributes of WRBs that should be considered in their selection. These include water resistance, water vapor permeance, air resistance, durability, compatibility with other materials, cost, installation challenges, and more. The three classes of WRBs that are the subject of this standard are felt-based materials, paper-based materials, and polymeric materials. The test methods referenced in this specification are those that are commonly used within North America for each of the material classes. Each material class has been historically tested by methods used by that particular material industry. These test methods, while providing distinction with a given material class, are not, in general, transferable between material classes. Because the goal of a single set of test methods that can be used to evaluate accurately the comparable critical performance properties of all WRBs is not attainable at this time, this specification is envisioned as a first step towards that goal. This draft standard was on Subcommittee Ballot E06.55 (06-01). All negatives and comments have been resolved, and a new draft is ready for ballot.
Keywords
water-resistive barrier; sheathing membrane; building paper; building felt; house wrap; building wrap; weather-resistive barrier
The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.
Citing ASTM Standards
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