ASTM E2128 Guide for Evaluating Water Leakage of Building Walls
ASTM E2128 -20 Standard Guide for Evaluating Water Leakage of Building Walls
ASTM E2128 provides a systematic methodology for determining the causes of water leakage through exterior wall systems.
At Sovell Investigative Testing and Consulting (SITC), we use ASTM E2128 as an investigative guide to to identify why wall systems leak and whether a building’s drainage capacity is causing or is likely to cause premature deterioration of the structure or its contents.
What ASTM E2128 Evaluates
ASTM E2128 defines a comprehensive approach to investigating water leakage, considering the wall as a complete system, including:
- Exterior and interior finishes
- Fenestration systems (windows, doors, curtain walls)
- Structural components
- Components that maintain the interior environment
This methodology is applicable to any wall system or material, making it flexible for residential, commercial, or architectural projects.
How ASTM E2128 Differs from Other Standards
Unlike many AAMA and ASTM testing standards that are material- or component-specific (e.g., AAMA 502 and AAMA 503, which are primarily quality assurance tests), ASTM E2128:
- Focuses on systematic evaluation rather than random sampling or hypothesis testing
- Begins with the premise that the building is known or suspected to leak
- Seeks to answer why, how, and to what extent a building is leaking
This makes ASTM E2128 a diagnostic tool rather than a simple pass/fail quality control test.
Investigative Methodology
The fundamental premise of ASTM E2128 is that the building is suspected or known to leak. The standard is specifically designed to support forensic and investigative evaluations, rather than pass/fail performance testing.
SITC applies ASTM E2128 to answer critical investigative questions, including:
- Why the building leaks
- How water is entering the wall system
- To what extent the leakage affects the building
Why Choose SITC for ASTM E2128 Investigations
With extensive experience in water intrusion testing and building science, SITC combines technical expertise, hands-on field testing, and systematic investigation techniques. Our approach ensures that you receive reliable, thorough evaluations of your building’s envelope performance.
For more information or to schedule an ASTM E2128 wall system evaluation, please contact SITC.
