Stone: ASTM Standards for Dimension Stone
Results of split-tail anchor pullout test in kerf sawn in stone edge conducted in accordance with ASTM C1354.
ASTM International publishes a number of standards for dimension stone that can be useful for design professionals and contractors alike when building with stone. Dimension stone is defined by ASTM as “natural stone that has been selected and fabricated to specific sizes or shapes for use in building construction, monuments or industrial applications.” The standards have evolved over the years to define standardized test methods, guides, terminology and specifications specifically geared towards standardization in the building stone industry.
Likely one of the most basic ASTM standards, ATM C119, Terminology Relating to Dimension Stone, defines the common and uncommon terms used in the stone industry. Where else are you going to find the definition of a “snip”1?
Useful on the initial stages of any exterior dimension stone project is ASTM C1528, Guide for the Selection of Dimension Stone for Exterior Use. The Guide provides direction on selection of proper stone materials, thickness, and anchorage for load-bearing masonry, cladding, building trim, pavements, steps, coping, roofing and ornamental or sculptural elements.
Once a material has been selected, ASTM specifications for dimension stone exist for Marble (C503), Limestone (C567), Granite (C615), Quartz-based stone (C616), Slate (C629), Serpentine (C1526) and Travertine (C1528). These specifications typically state minimum or maximum values for various grading classifications within the stone type. Typical physical properties specified include, absorption, density, compressive strength, modulus of rupture, abrasion resistance and flexural strength.
As stone is a material that can vary from quarry to quarry or even within a deposit within a single quarry, testing is frequently required to define the material properties (and their variability) of the chosen dimension stone. Test methods are defined for determining absorption and specific gravity (C97), modulus of rupture (C99), compressive strength (C170), water absorption and weather resistance of slate (C121 and C217), abrasion resistance (C241 and C1353), flexural strength (C880) and anchor ultimate strength values (C1354).
Typical stone veneer anchorage with split-tail anchor attached to steel stud backup.
ASTM C1242, Guide for Selection, Design, and Installation of Dimension Stone Anchoring Systems, provides great information for the dimension stone anchor design professional. Design considerations, materials, anchor types, and installation standards are all discussed in detail within the Guide.
Lastly, ASTM provides two standards recommending maintenance and cleaning procedures for existing dimension stone installations. ASTM C1496, Guide for Assessment and Maintenance of Exterior Dimension Stone Masonry Walls and Facades, provides information on evaluation procedures, maintenance, common problems and concludes with a useful checklist for assessment and maintenance of stone facades. ASTM C1515, Standard Guide for Cleaning of Exterior Dimension Stone, Vertical and Horizontal Surfaces, New or Existing, provide valuable information on removal of organic, metallic, oil/grease and paint stains from polished, honed and textured stone.
1Snip — the area of a stone surface from which a chip has been dislodged