Waterproofing Standards: Evaluating ASTM Testing

ASTM Testing’s mission is to evaluate – through waterproofing standards testing – products used to
waterproof materials, surfaces and building systems. Tests even concern the “green” aspect of the chemicals
comprising the coating. These tests include how best to apply a coating and with what tools. Nonetheless, it is
the hydrostatic movement of water from the earth to the surface or even rain on a roof or patio that best
exemplify the challenges to waterproofing’s integrity and effectiveness. The focus of these waterproofing
standards concentrates on the penetration of moisture or water through a treated surface or membrane.
Water tight describes the performance standard for waterproof coatings.
If the waterproofing cannot stem hydrostatic movement of water or water’s migration, then it will fail the test.
The inability by a coating to resist chemicals that can harm the membrane and blunt root growth will also fail.
Yet, a waterproofing system changes depending on the surface and more. In turn, that affects the test type. The
ASTM has performed many waterproofing standards testing on waterproofing products but does not do field
testing which leaves environmental factors and daily usage issues sidelined.

It is the outcome over time that determines whether a waterproof coating passes the American Society for
Testing Materials (ASTM) test. For example, the expectation, despite warranty standards, is that the
waterproofing (membranes) should maintain its integrity for the surface’s – a building component or structure
– life.

For flooring applications, the ASTM uses standard changes and the warranty typical to the industry. Again, the
waterproofing standards testing does not apply to the chemicals used or their compounds, but to the
result. Screening for chemicals and their compounds for a “green” analysis take place, but no further
qualitative evaluations occur. The test underscores the public’s interest in health for both themselves and the
environment. The test does not highlight which chemical is better than another.

ASTM’s lab testing has a stellar reputation.

Since experimental testing is confined to a lab, most of

the recommendations that arise from test results contain a caveat to that effect. ASTM’s lab testing has a stellar
reputation. Waterproof products receive evaluation through methods that copy their application to a surface.
Patios, kitchen floors, and wooden decks are not constructed or brought into the labs. The materials from these
systems undergo the testing to see if they remain water tight or resistant when exposed to moisture, hydration,
and water migration. The results are then published.

Since the ASTM is such a respected organization, its recommendations and evaluations can have a powerful
effect. Companies advertise that their products meet ASTM standards as a means of showing that they remain
competitive on a technological level. This is also a means to display their concern and involvement in
protecting the community. It is a seal of approval that helps market the product.
To look, however, to the ASTM to provide insight into the actual nature or effect of individual chemicals that
comprise waterproof coatings goes beyond their mission. Their waterproofing standards testing embraces and
outcome determinative test for waterproofing coatings, excluding determining the “green” level of a product.

The limitation on waterproofing standards testing limits the trust placed on

ASTM’s evaluation.
Snowy conditions versus the jungle humidity have their effect on waterproofing products. Cold climates versus
warm climates also have their effect. A surface that receives a daily abundance of foot traffic versus a patio’s
surface that only enjoys use during summer will also yield different results over time.

Understanding what a test does and what it tries to accomplish proves key to what it is evaluating. Simply
taking a result and using it to suggest that it claims something that it doesn’t prove inadvisable. Products often
work better in different environments. Also, one product may perform better in one set of conditions than
another. This makes it difficult to conclude that a product may improve after testing.

A bad waterproofing standards testing result usually evokes an immediate response. As indicated, companies
want ASTM’s approval for the products they use. Compliance to meet that minimum standard will hopefully
work to excite companies to improve their products to meet that standard.

Contact us, Pli-Dek Systems, to learn more about the many ASTM tests that we have gone through and passed,
as well as to learn more about flooring systems,

ASTM D7832/D7832M-14(2021)
Standard Guide for Performance Attributes of Waterproofing Membranes Applied to
Below-Grade Walls / Vertical Surfaces (Enclosing Interior Spaces)
1. Scope

1.1 This guide lists test methods intended to establish a minimum level of acceptable
performance attributes for reinforced or laminated waterproofing membranes applied to
below-grade walls.

1.2 This guide does not include cementitious, integral, or bentonite waterproofing
systems.

1.3 This guide does not include membranes applied under slabs on grade or on
suspended slabs below grade or applied to soil retaining systems, water containment
structures, or tunnels.
1.4 It is not possible to establish a precise correlation between laboratory tests on
waterproofing membranes and performance attributes after installation due to variations
in chemicals in the soil, design, material, and installation.

1.5 The values stated in either inch-pound or SI units are to be regarded separately as
standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore,
each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two
systems may result in nonconformance with the standard.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any,
associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish
appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability
of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally

recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for
the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by
the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.