Mar 02, 2010

A newly approved ASTM International standard will advance the cause of architectural preservation. The new standard, ASTM C1713, Specification for Mortars for the Repair of Historic Masonry, was developed by Subcommittee C12.03 on Specifications for Mortars, part of ASTM International Committee C12 on Mortars and Grouts for Masonry Units.

John Wathne, structural engineer and president of Structures North Consulting Engineers Inc., and chairman of the task group that developed ASTM C1713, notes that another C12 standard, ASTM C270, Specification for Mortar for Unit Masonry, which was originally approved in 1951, has to date very effectively covered mortars for new construction, repairs to existing modern era structures and, to some extent, repairs to older buildings. However, many of the buildings constructed prior to the existence of ASTM C270 pre-date the use of modern cement and lime formulations in that standard and have become increasingly in need of repair and maintenance.

“In response, an entire industry of preservationists and maintainers has emerged, and a body of knowledge has been developed regarding the use of appropriate materials and techniques for preserving these structures, based upon lessons learned thus far,” says Wathne.

Among lessons learned and incorporated into ASTM C1713 is that new restoration materials must be visually, chemically and physically compatible with the original in-situ materials being worked on, as well as suitable for the application, climatic and performance requirements of the installation.

Wathne notes that ASTM C1713 will allow specifiers to select mortars based on scientific principles and testing methods in order to satisfy project-specific requirements and goals. The new standard also provides accompanying limitations and guidelines for the use of material combinations that are outside the realm of ASTM C270.

“It is ultimately hoped that the specified tests will provide a basis upon which a body of much-needed property data can eventually be amassed by the users and producers of common historic mortar types, thereby providing a standardized basis by which a variety of mortar types can be compared in a consistent manner, hopefully ending up in the public domain,” says Wathne.

To continue to refine ASTM C1713, the task group responsible for its development is currently looking for new members. “We are looking for a well-rounded complement of specifiers, manufacturers and contractors, as well as laboratory testing and quality control-related individuals; the very people who will be following the requirements set forth in ASTM C1713.”

Wathne notes that the task group hopes to monitor the use and implementation of ASTM C1713, particularly since it is a standard in which the preservation community is extremely interested.

Plans for future revisions include adding an appendix that will provide supplemental guidance as to use of the standard and an annex that will provide guidance and target values to assist specifiers in understanding materials involved in a given project.

To purchase ASTM standards, visit www.astm.org and search by the standard designation number, or contact ASTM Customer Relations (phone: 610-832-9585; https://www.astm.org/contact/). ASTM International welcomes and encourages participation in the development of its standards. For more information on becoming an ASTM member, visit www.astm.org/JOIN.

ASTM Committee C12 Next Meeting: June 8-10, June committee week, St. Louis, Mo.
Technical Contact: John Wathne, Structures North Consulting Engineers Inc., Salem, Mass., Phone: 978-745-6817; jwathne@structures-north.com
ASTM Staff Contact: Kevin Shanahan, Phone: 610-832-9737; kshanaha@astm.org
ASTM PR Contact: Barbara Schindler, Phone: 610-832-9603; bschindl@astm.org

Release 8515/March2010