ASTM C 1496 : 2018

1.1This guide outlines how to visually assess exterior stone masonry walls and facades to determine their general condition. Examining key features of the construction can help identify and diagnose problems which require repairs or corrective action. Such an examination can expose conditions which may be addressed with maintenance and minor repairs, or may require expert assistance. This guide is not intended to be used for buildings requiring major exterior rehabilitation or structural repairs.

1.2This guide specifically excludes dimension stone used in interior building surfaces, flooring or paving, slate dimension stone used as roofing. Though they share some similar assessment and maintenance concerns, thin stone (less than 2 in. nominal thickness) exterior cladding, and stone cladding attached to metal flames are also excluded due to their unique design characteristics and performance requirements. Although procedures and cautions listed herein may apply to walls and facades containing semi-dimension, or partially sized, stone in the form of split-face, or rubble and to stone-facade concrete panels, the guide is not specifically directed to such stone use. It does not address removal of small-area stains.

1.3This guide offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with the judgment of stone restoration design consultants. Not all aspects of this guide may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given stone consultants service must be judged, nor should this document be applied without consideration of a project’s many unique aspects. The word “Standard” in the title of this document means only that the document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.

1.4The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.5This 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.

1.6This 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.