Burby Logo 8.1.2021
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Application of Wall Coatings

Application of Wall Coatings

Wall coatings are an essential part of the waterproofing system and the building envelope.  Various factors should be taken into account when selecting a wall coating, whether it is for a new project or for a restoration or re-coating application.

Preparing the surface is extremely important.  The substrate (concrete, masonry, stucco, etc.) or surface (another wall coating) should have no holes or cracks, free from dirt and debris, and dry with a manufacturer specific moisture content.

Generally, a coating is made up of four primary ingredients:  Binder, Pigment, Carrier, and Additives.  The binder is the film forming portion, and can be acrylic or silicon, among other types.  The pigment is the color.  When exposed to sunlight, bright (organic) colors tend to fade quicker.  Coatings can also be elastomeric or non-elastomeric.  Elastomeric coatings are more flexible but may be less durable.

A mock-up should always be performed to ensure the selected coating performs as intended.  Adhesion tests, per ASTM D3359, should be conducted in multiple locations to ensure the coating is adhering as intended.  Lastly, the coating should be applied properly (both in wet mil thickness and application technique), whether by roller, power sprayers, or paint brush.

Wall coatings can provide protection for your building in the form of waterproofing, weatherproofing, or insulation, so it is critical for the application process to be done correctly. The team at Burby Engineering is experienced in evaluating paints and waterproofing coatings on buildings and specialty structures such as elevated pools, terraces, balconies, wall systems and parking garage structures.  For more information or for a consultation on your issue, please contact us at info@burbyengineering.com or call 813.600.3339.

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Fenestration Testing Guidelines

Fenestration Testing Guidelines

Testing on windows and doors can be performed to help ensure that water intrusion at these locations is not an issue. These testing procedures are governed by various industry guidelines; The American Architectural Manufacturer’s Association (AAMA) standards generally govern the lab testing protocols.  The ASTM International standards generally govern the field testing protocols. However, these standards often reference each other, so sometimes multiple standards need to be taken into consideration to perform certain tests.

The “North American Fenestration Standard/Specification for windows, doors, and skylights” (AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/1.S.2/A440-17) is a helpful document to gain a good global understanding of fenestration products and the various tests that can be performed on them.  ASTM International E 2112-18, “Standard Practice for Installation of Exterior Windows, Doors and Skylights” is a document that should be used by the contractors who are installing these products in the field.

Tests that can be performed include air leakage resistance, water penetration resistance, a uniform load structural test, a uniform load deflection test, operating force, and forced-entry resistance.  Initially, these tests are conducted in a laboratory setting prior to installation in the field.  After the window or door product is installed, quality control testing can be performed before the building is operable.  Once in service, testing can be done to evaluate the performance of the windows or doors, and also to forensically investigate water intrusion issues.

In order to properly conduct testing on the windows and doors of your next project, consult with professionals experienced with these tests.  The team at Burby Engineering have both the necessary equipment and training to perform air leakage resistance, water penetration resistance, and uniform load structural/deflection tests on windows and doors.  Contact us to learn more!

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