Rationale

ASTM D7897, the Standard Practice for Laboratory Soiling and Weathering of Roofing Materials to Simulate Effects of Natural Exposure on Solar Reflectance and Thermal Emittance, has been a valuable resource since its initial adoption in 2015. It received an update in 2018 with the addition of a Precision and Bias statement and was reapproved in 2023, showing its ongoing relevance. Currently, fewer than ten laboratories are accredited to this standard; however, it is gaining momentum, particularly on the international stage. This increasing global interest highlights the need for the proposed clarifying updates in sections 8.1, 9.3.3, 10.1.4, and 10.1.5. These revisions are based on practical feedback from users of the standard. By clarifying the requirements and reducing the chance of misinterpretation, these proposed changes aim to prevent disputes and strengthen its role as a trusted global benchmark.