StoGuard Proves Why ASTM E 2357 is the Bellwether of Air Barrier Testing
Proven Performance in Lab and Field testing.
- (1888PressRelease) October 08, 2010 - ATLANTA - StoGuard, the waterproof air barrier, has recently passed the ASTM E 2357 testing that proves the performance of this fluid-applied air barrier that some are referring to as "spray-on energy efficiency."
StoGuard, manufactured by Atlanta based Sto Corp., was introduced into the market in 2001 and has been gaining ground with real world and lab testing showing its efficacy in the field. However, what exactly is the ASTM E 2357 and why should architects, specifiers, and contractors care about it?
"This test method is intended to simulate the performance of various air barrier materials/accessories when combined into an assembly, said Lisa Petsko, StoGuard product manager. "Based upon the results of the measurements, this procedure then assigns an air leakage rating for the air barrier assembly."
She went on to explain that architects, specifiers, and contractors should not only be aware of this test, but to incorporate only those that have passed this test. Other considerations include the material cost and installation time and ease when selecting an air barrier. StoGuard incorporates ease of installation and cost-effectiveness in a high performance product.
Officially known as ASTM E 2357, Test Method for Determining Air Leakage of Air Barrier Assemblies, test specimens are 8-ft by 8-ft (2400 x 2400 mm) and include a panel with a rough opening (filled with a plywood blank), circular pipe penetration, HVAC duct penetration, electrical box attachments and penetrations, and brick ties. This "detail" panel also includes transition details to adjacent framing and a concrete foundation or slab.
According testing sources, the ASTM E 2357 includes a multi-step loading protocol, which subjects the assembly to both negative and positive pressures for sustained periods and repeated cycles of rapid loading followed by positive and negative gust loading.
After completion of the loading protocol, a final air leakage rate is measured and reported. The maximum allowable air leakage rate required by most codes for air barrier assemblies is 10 times more than for an air barrier material, or 0.2 L/s·m2.
Many products meet the definition of an air barrier material. Gypsum sheathing products are the baseline materials meeting the air leakage requirement:
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