By: Dominic L. Pusateri
In order to evaluate wall components, various tests can be utilized. Methods for the evaluation of these components are outlined in ASTM E 2128, Evaluating Water Leakage of Building Walls. One of the methods described in this standard involves directing water in a targeted fashion by building a dam around suspect areas and applying water. Hydrostatic head pressure comes into play only if the water is retained at some level in the dam. However, when water exits the dam as fast as it is poured into the dam, then hydrostatic pressure is not necessary for water to enter the components, mere capillary conduction is all that is necessary and the dam acts then more as a funnel, isolating water to specific areas. The benefit of the approach is that it is more precise as to the locations where the defect lies. This helps with the inference of the results when comparing the test locations to section details.
