Performance of cladding and waterproofing materials

The long-term performance of the materials that create the building envelope is essential to the long-term durability of buildings and structures. This thesis summarizes published literature on various cladding and waterproofing materials. In addition, the research involved in the creation of this thesis evaluated several performance aspects of these components. Code requirements for anchored masonry veneer were tabulated and compared against requirements in the specification. It was determined that not all code requirements are also found in the specification. It is recommended that the specifier, whether and Engineer or an Architect, specify those code requirements which are not in the specification. Materials testing of exterior plaster mixtures specified in ASTM C926 was completed. Prisms and cubes were cast to determine the drying shrinkage potential and compressive strength of various plaster mixtures. This information can be useful when determining suitable control joints and their required spacing for a given mix. The crack-bridging ability of fluid-applied weather resistive barriers was evaluated using a new test method. This test method has not been published and is very similar to ASTM C1305, a test method for other fluid-applied waterproofing membranes. It was determined that ASTM C1305 may not be suitable for all fluid-applied products since thicknesses vary between manufacturers. Different asphalt impregnated membranes including roofing felt and building paper were installed on a mock-up for long term exposure. Research was performed as to the long-term performance of each of the products. It was determined that both paper and felt comply with code requirements and should be chosen when they have the greatest advantages for the given building envelope system. A large-scale test was performed on clear penetrating water repellents. These were applied to a suitable substrate and evaluated for their ability to resist water infiltration. Many of these products are highly effective at reducing the amount of water absorption. Prolonged UV exposure will shed light as to the long-term durability of these products. This research is part of an ongoing project at The University of Texas at Austin’s Durability Lab. Ongoing testing that began previously, including water resistive barriers mock-ups, nail sealability, and elastomeric sealants, have not been included in this thesis.