ASTM International Standard Guide for Assessment and Maintenance of Exterior Dimension Stone Masonry Walls and Facades ASTM C1496-11

This guide outlines the standard procedures for the visual assessment and maintenance of exterior dimension stone masonry walls and facades to determine their general condition. The examination procedures established here can help identify and diagnose problems that require repairs or corrective action, but is not intended to be used for buildings requiring major exterior rehabilitation or structural repairs. This guide applies to walls of solid stone or dimension stone claddings with joints usually filled with mortar or sealant that are designed to accommodate structural and thermal movements. This guide specifically excludes the following: dimension stone used in interior building surfaces, flooring, or paving; slate dimension stone used as roofing; thin stone exterior cladding; stone cladding attached to metal flames; the removal of small area stains. Also, this guide may apply, but is not specifically directed, to the following: walls and facades containing semi-dimensions, or partially sized, stone in the form of split-face or rubble; and stone-facade concrete panels. The common problems to consider include rising damps; mortar distresses; surface losses; cracks; displacements, bowings, or bulges; and spalls and fragments. The corresponding repairs to be made that shall address these problems are detailed for each.