ASTM E3069-19a

Standard Guide for Evaluation and Rehabilitation of Mass Masonry Walls for Changes to Thermal and Moisture Properties of the Wall

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Energy conservation is being addressed more often on existing and historically significant buildings constructed with solid exterior mass masonry walls. Without proper evaluation, changes to the thermal and moisture properties of the exterior walls could have serious negative impacts on the existing masonry, new or existing wall components, and building operations.  
4.2 A thorough understanding of the original construction and subsequent alterations, condition of materials, properties, initial moisture content, water and air leakage potential, and building operations are necessary before undertaking the addition of interior insulation, air barrier, vapor retarder, or other changes to thermal or vapor resistance of the wall.  
4.3 Degradation of the existing masonry along with moisture related problematic conditions and indoor air quality issues could develop if alterations are undertaken in an improper manner to the exterior wall assembly.
SCOPE
1.1 This guide addresses the evaluation of existing mass masonry walls for the potential addition of interior insulation and continuous air barrier or vapor retarder or other changes to the thermal and moisture management properties of the wall.  
1.2 This guide describes methods for evaluating moisture accumulation related problems specific to mass masonry walls. This guide does not apply to walls that include provisions to manage bulk water through internal drainage, flashings, or other measures other than the moisture storage capacity of the wall.  
1.3 This guide describes analysis, design, and specification of materials with the required thermal, air, and vapor resistance to improve the energy performance of an existing mass masonry wall, but that would not create problematic conditions to the masonry units or within the masonry wall or interior of the building.  
1.4 This guide applies to walls of masonry construction meeting the requirements of a “mass masonry wall” as defined herein. This guide does not apply to masonry walls that, by design, are intended to manage water as a barrier wall system or drainage wall system.  
1.5 The 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.  
1.6 This 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.  
1.7 This 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.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Sep-2019
• ICS: 91.060.10 - Walls. Partitions. Facades
• ICS: 91.120.10 - Thermal insulation of buildings
• Technical Committee: E06 - Performance of Buildings
• Drafting Committee: E06.24 - Building Preservation and Rehabilitation Technology

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM E3069-19 - Standard Guide for Evaluation and Rehabilitation of Mass Masonry Walls for Changes to Thermal and Moisture Properties of the Wall
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM E96/E96M-24 - Standard Test Methods for Gravimetric Determination of Water Vapor Transmission Rate of Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM E96/E96M-23 - Standard Test Methods for Gravimetric Determination of Water Vapor Transmission Rate of Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM C1794-19 - Standard Test Methods for Determination of the Water Absorption Coefficient by Partial Immersion
• Effective Date: 15-Sep-2019
• Refers: ASTM C67/C67M-19 - Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and Structural Clay Tile
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2019
• Refers: ASTM C67/C67M-18 - Standard Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and Structural Clay Tile
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2018
• Refers: ASTM E96/E96M-15 - Standard Test Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials
• Effective Date: 01-May-2015
• Refers: ASTM C1794-15 - Standard Test Methods for Determination of the Water Absorption Coefficient by Partial Immersion
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2015
• Refers: ASTM E631-15 - Standard Terminology of Building Constructions
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2015
• Refers: ASTM E631-14 - Standard Terminology of Building Constructions
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2014
• Refers: ASTM E96/E96M-14 - Standard Test Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Oct-2014
• Refers: ASTM E96/E96M-13 - Standard Test Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2013
• Refers: ASTM E398-13 - Standard Test Method for Water Vapor Transmission Rate of Sheet Materials Using Dynamic Relative Humidity Measurement
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2013
• Refers: ASTM E96/E96M-12 - Standard Test Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2012
• Refers: ASTM E2128-12 - Standard Guide for Evaluating Water Leakage of Building Walls
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2012

Overview

ASTM E3069-19a is the Standard Guide for Evaluation and Rehabilitation of Mass Masonry Walls for Changes to Thermal and Moisture Properties of the Wall. Published by ASTM International, this standard provides comprehensive guidance on evaluating, designing, and specifying interventions aimed at improving the thermal and moisture performance of existing mass masonry walls. The document is particularly relevant for energy conservation efforts in existing and historically significant buildings with solid exterior masonry construction.

This guide emphasizes the importance of properly assessing the existing condition and performance of masonry walls before implementing changes such as the addition of interior insulation, air barriers, or vapor retarders. Without thorough evaluation, such modifications can lead to moisture-related damage, deterioration of masonry, and indoor air quality issues. The standard highlights the necessity of balancing energy performance improvements with the long-term durability and historical integrity of the structure.

Key Topics

• Evaluation of Existing Conditions: The guide outlines the process for detailed analysis of original construction, material conditions, moisture content, and air and water leakage potential.
• Thermal Performance Assessment: It details methodologies for in-situ thermal resistance measurements and modeling to accurately factor in thermal mass effects in energy calculations.
• Moisture Analysis: Focuses on identifying and addressing moisture accumulation issues unique to mass masonry walls, which rely on moisture storage rather than drainage for water management.
• Material Characterization: Recommends laboratory and field testing of material properties such as porosity, moisture storage, and vapor permeability to inform design decisions.
• Hygrothermal Modeling: Advises on conducting hygrothermal simulations in line with ASHRAE 160 to predict wall performance under altered thermal and moisture conditions.
• Preservation Considerations: Guidance for balancing retrofit energy improvements with the preservation of historic aesthetics and long-term wall performance.

Applications

ASTM E3069-19a is a key reference for professionals involved in the energy retrofit of historic and existing buildings constructed with mass masonry walls. Its practical applications include:

• Insulation Upgrades: Assessing the impact and feasibility of adding interior insulation to enhance building energy efficiency without compromising the wall’s structural and moisture performance.
• Air and Vapor Control: Evaluating the need for, and the selection of, air barriers and vapor retarders in masonry wall retrofits.
• Historic Building Rehabilitation: Supporting compliance with preservation standards when upgrading thermal properties in historically significant structures.
• Moisture Management: Diagnosing and mitigating pre-existing moisture infiltration and accumulation before implementing energy conservation measures.
• Performance Specifications: Assisting architects, engineers, and building scientists in selecting suitable materials and developing retrofit approaches based on existing wall properties.

Related Standards

The guide references and aligns with several industry standards and codes to ensure consistency and best practices, including:

• ASTM Standards:

  • C20 - Testing brick properties
  • C67/C67M - Testing and sampling brick and structural clay tile
  • C1046 & C1155 - Measurement and calculation of heat flux and thermal resistance
  • E96/E96M & E398 - Water vapor transmission testing
  • E2128 - Evaluating water leakage in building walls

• ASHRAE 160: Criteria for moisture-control design analysis in buildings.

• International Energy Conservation Code (IECC): Provides guidance on U-factor and insulation requirements.

• National Park Service Standards: Including Preservation Brief #3 and the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation for historic building guidance.

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Keywords: ASTM E3069-19a, mass masonry wall, energy retrofit, moisture control, thermal performance, historic building rehabilitation, interior insulation, air barrier, vapor retarder, hygrothermal analysis, moisture management in masonry.

Standards Content (Sample)

This 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.
Designation: E3069 − 19a
Standard Guide for
Evaluation and Rehabilitation of Mass Masonry Walls for
Changes to Thermal and Moisture Properties of the Wall
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3069; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
1.1 This guide addresses the evaluation of existing mass
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
masonry walls for the potential addition of interior insulation
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
and continuous air barrier or vapor retarder or other changes to
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
the thermal and moisture management properties of the wall.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
1.2 This guide describes methods for evaluating moisture
accumulation related problems specific to mass masonry walls. 2. Referenced Documents
This guide does not apply to walls that include provisions to
2.1 ASTM Standards:
manage bulk water through internal drainage, flashings, or
C20 Test Methods for Apparent Porosity, Water Absorption,
other measures other than the moisture storage capacity of the
Apparent Specific Gravity, and Bulk Density of Burned
wall.
Refractory Brick and Shapes by Boiling Water
1.3 This guide describes analysis, design, and specification
C67/C67M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick
ofmaterialswiththerequiredthermal,air,andvaporresistance and Structural Clay Tile
to improve the energy performance of an existing mass
C1046 Practice for In-Situ Measurement of Heat Flux and
masonrywall,butthatwouldnotcreateproblematicconditions Temperature on Building Envelope Components
to the masonry units or within the masonry wall or interior of
C1155 Practice for Determining Thermal Resistance of
the building. Building Envelope Components from the In-Situ Data
C1498 Test Method for Hygroscopic Sorption Isotherms of
1.4 This guide applies to walls of masonry construction
Building Materials
meeting the requirements of a “mass masonry wall” as defined
C1794 TestMethodsforDeterminationoftheWaterAbsorp-
herein. This guide does not apply to masonry walls that, by
tion Coefficient by Partial Immersion
design, are intended to manage water as a barrier wall system
E96/E96M Test Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of
or drainage wall system.
Materials
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
E398 Test Method for Water Vapor Transmission Rate of
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
Sheet Materials Using Dynamic Relative Humidity Mea-
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
surement
and are not considered standard.
E631 Terminology of Building Constructions
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
E2128 Guide for Evaluating Water Leakage of Building
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
Walls
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
2.2 Other Standards:
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
ASHRAE 160 Criteria for Moisture-Control Design Analy-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
sis in Buildings
International Energy Conservation Code
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E06 on Performance the ASTM website.
of Buildings and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E06.24 on Building Available from American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-
Preservation and Rehabilitation Technology. Conditioning Engineers, Inc. (ASHRAE), 1791 Tullie Circle, NE, Atlanta, GA
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2019. Published November 2019. Originally 30329, http://www.ashrae.org.
approved in 2017. Last previous edition approved in 2019 as E3069–19. DOI: Available from International Code Council (ICC), 500 New Jersey Ave., NW,
10.1520/E3069–19A. 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20001, http://www.iccsafe.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E3069 − 19a
Secretary of The Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation issues could develop if alterations are undertaken in an
improper manner to the exterior wall assembly.
3. Terminology
5. Review of Project Documents
3.1 Definitions:
5.1 Available construction documents should be reviewed
3.1.1 absorption, n—describes the capillary uptake of water
as outlined in Guide E2128.
(liquid moisture) when the imbibing surface is fully wetted.
5.2 Prior to undertaking a field evaluation and, if available,
3.1.2 liquid transport, n—describes both the initial uptake
the original documents from time of construction should be
of liquid water (absorption) on a material surface and the
reviewed to determine the general wall thickness, composition,
subsequent redistribution of liquid water through a material.
and geometry. The presence of intentional annular spaces or
3.1.3 mass masonry wall, n—wall constructed of masonry
other voids should be identified.
including all types of natural and unit masonry, not less than
5.3 Inspection reports, surveys, repair or alteration
8 in. thick (nominal) with the ability to store and subsequently
drawings,orotheravailabledocumentationshouldbereviewed
release moisture.
to gain a better understanding of the current condition of the
3.1.3.1 Discussion—In the context of this guide, moisture
exterior walls.
storage within the wall is the primary mechanism for water
management. 5.4 Since many buildings featuring mass masonry walls
were constructed prior to modern construction delivery
3.1.4 moisture, n—generally refers to the presence of water
methods, it is recognized that construction documents are
in either the liquid or vapor form.
typically non-existent or limited. As such, any available
3.1.5 moisture issues, n—refers to any complaint or defi-
photographsorotherdocumentationofthebuildingthroughout
ciency attributable to moisture, including but not limited to,
time should be reviewed to help identify which portions of the
occupant discomfort, biological growth, corrosion, wood
building or wall assembly is original and which portions were
decay, staining, freeze-thaw damage, or other durability issue
added at later times.
related to the presence of moisture.
6. Determination of Service History
3.1.6 moisture permeation, n—a process in which moisture
(water or vapor) enters, flows, spreads within, and discharges
6.1 Using the methods outlined in Guide E2128, a thorough
from a material.
evaluation of the building’s service history should be con-
ducted. The following activities should be included in the
3.1.7 redistribution, n—describes the spreading of the im-
evaluation:
bibedwaterwhenthewatersourceisshutoffandnonewwater
6.1.1 Documentation of physical symptoms of moisture
is taken up by the material, and the water present in the
damage or presence of moisture.
material begins to redistribute through the material.
6.1.2 Interviews with occupants, maintenance staff,
3.2 See E631, Standard Terminology of Building
contractors, or other first-hand observers to correlate moisture
Constructions, for general terminology.
related issues with the building maintenance and operation
history or weather patterns, or both. Changes to the building’s
4. Significance and Use
mechanicalsystemsormechanicalsystemoperationsshouldbe
4.1 Energy conservation is being addressed more often on
determined as best as possible.
existing and historically significant buildings constructed with
6.1.3 Review of maintenance and repair records for both the
solid exterior mass masonry walls. Without proper evaluation,
mechanical systems and building enclosure.
changes to the thermal and moisture properties of the exterior
6.1.4 Review of vicinity weather records.
walls could have serious negative impacts on the existing
6.1.5 Correlations of moisture issues with other factors such
masonry, new or existing wall components, and building
as season of year, building elevations, wall height, interior
operations.
conditions or use.
4.2 A thorough understanding of the original construction
6.2 Ifreadilyavailable,identifywheretheexistingmaterials
and subsequent alterations, condition of materials, properties,
were sourced and review the performance of similar materials
initial moisture content, water and air leakage potential, and
on nearby existing buildings.
building operations are necessary before undertaking the addi-
7. Initial Evaluation
tion of interior insulation, air barrier, vapor retarder, or other
changes to thermal or vapor resistance of the wall.
7.1 The overall thickness of the wall should be determined
or verified with field measurements at various locations
4.3 Degradation of the existing masonry along with mois-
throughout the building.
ture related problematic conditions and indoor air quality
7.2 When accurate drawings of each wall section are not
available, it will be necessary to determine the wall composi-
Available from Technical Preservation Services (TPS), National Park Service,
tion and wall assembly details of each critical or unique wall
1849 C Street, NW, Mail Stop 7243, Washington, DC 20240, http://www.nps.gov/
tps. section.
E3069 − 19a
7.3 Mass masonry walls historically have been constructed 8. Evaluation of Material Properties
with a wide range of materials to include, but not limited to:
8.1 The properties of the materials comprising the wall can
brick, mortar, clay tile, concrete masonry units (CMU), terra
vary and will result in inaccurate hygrothermal models if
cotta, cast stone, and stone.
testing to determine the properties of the actual material
7.4 The exact wall composition should be verified through properties of each component within the wall, including
small discrete exploratory openings. The historic integrity of variation within a specific material, is not undertaken. Pub-
the existing wall should be carefully evaluated when selecting
lished generic material property data may not match the
the locations to make the exploratory openings. existing materials in the building or structure and may not be
specific enough to make valid assumptions.
7.5 The wall composition can be determined through a
combination of exterior and interior probes, borescopes, tar-
8.2 If possible, representative samples should either be
getedremovals,andvariousnon-destructivetestingtechniques. removed from the interior from the locations of exploratory
The number and size of the openings should be kept to the
openings or from other discrete locations. If a solid grout or
minimum that is necessary to determine the composition of the collar joint is present, samples of such material should be
wall, but sufficient to gather pertinent information on a included to determine the hygrothermal material properties.
representative sample of existing construction.At a minimum, Consideration should be given to the location and number of
the following should be recorded: samples to be removed and tested. Representative samples
7.5.1 Overall thickness of the wall; should be removed to ensure the variance in materials from the
differing elevations, floors, and wythes are evaluated.
7.5.2 Type of material(s) present within the wall. Distin-
guish original construction or retrofit materials where possible
8.3 The following hygrothermal material properties should
to identify whether the existing masonry had previously been
be determined using testing procedures indicated. Published
repaired or altered and to document the condition and presence
values for a material of similar type and density are allowed to
of the joint between original and retrofit materials;
be used if samples are not available or project parameters will
7.5.3 Number of wythes;
not afford the time for laboratory testing:
7.5.4 Thickness of each material or wythe;
8.3.1 Bulk density per Test Methods C20.
7.5.5 Condition and material type of each wythe;
8.3.2 Moisture storage function (sorption-isotherm curve)
7.5.6 Presence and thickness of collar joint or voids within
per Test Method C1498.
the wythes;
8.3.3 Test Methods E96/E96M (or Test Method E398 for
7.5.7 Presence of water.
sheet materials) vapor permeance at range of moisture contents
7.6 Examine the condition of all other materials making up to develop the permeance as a function of moisture content.
the wall assembly. Determine if there is any existing evidence
8.3.4 Porosity per Test Methods C20.
of previous freeze-thaw damage. Determine if any corrosion of
8.4 The following material properties should also be deter-
any metallic elements such as veneer ties or embedded
mined. Empirical testing required to determine these properties
structural supports are present. Determine if there is any
can be costly and complex. It is acceptable to determine these
biological growth or other moisture related damage on existing
properties analytically or using engineering judgment as de-
organic materials.
scribed.
7.7 If a collar joint is present, qualitatively assess how
8.4.1 Heat Capacity—Selected using engineering judgment
complete or full the joint is and its impact on air and moisture
from published values in any of the referenced documents for
transport.
a material of similar density.
8.4.2 Thermal Conductivity—Selected using engineering
7.8 Qualitatively assess any air movement through and
judgment from published values in any of the referenced
across the assembly to determine if drying potential is offered
documents for a material of similar density.
via convection, utilizing methods such as infrared
8.4.3 Water Absorption Coeffıcient—Test Methods C1794.
thermography, smoke pencil, or other visual observations.
8.4.4 Oncethewaterabsorptioncoefficientisknownandthe
7.9 Determine whether the existing masonry features an
moisture content at free saturation is determined from the
existing coating or water repellant on interior or exterior
sorption isotherm curve, the approximation of the liquid
surfaces. If so, determine what impact this product would have
transport coefficient (absorption and redistribution) can be
on the permeance and the liquid transport coefficient. Consid-
determined.
eration should be given to how this product has performed
8.5 If the building is located in a region where freeze-thaw
historically and what the expected useful service life is for the
damage is of concern, the following properties should be
proposed product.
determined for any material included in the wall that would be
7.10 Simultaneously determine representative interior and
subject to freeze-thaw exposure:
exterior surface temperatures, ambient interior and exterior
8.5.1 Saturation coefficient per Test Methods C67/C67M.
relative humidity and temperature, building differential pres-
8.5.2 50 cycle freeze-thaw test per Test Methods C67/
sure and initial moisture contents and moisture permeation
C67M.
patterns of the existing wall using procedures described in
Field Determination of Existing Moisture Content (Appendix 8.6 Engineering judgment will be required to interpret the
X1). results of the brick material testing conducted in accordance
E3069 − 19a
with Test Methods C67/C67M. A direct comparison of the solar radiation and that is protected with natural or artificial
values of historic masonry units should not be made to the shading devices. It is important that engineering judgment be
requirementsformodernmasonrymaterialsasthepropertiesof applied during the testing and when interpreting the results
masonry materials may have changed over time. from the in-situ evaluation to ensure that the results reflect the
actual performance of the wall assembly.
9. Evaluation of As-Built Thermal Properties 9.4.2.2 Computer Modeling—To accurately account for the
thermal mass, an energy simulation software program that
9.1 Thermalmass,apropertydirectlyrelatedtoawall’sheat
utilizes the attributes of the materials’ density, thermal
capacity, is a phenomena that enables building materials to
conductivity, specific heat, and thermal diffusivity, and is able
absorb, store, and later release significant amounts of heat.The
to model the dynamic performance of the wall over time could
materials within the wall absorb energy slowly and hold it for
be used.
longer periods when compared to more light weight, modern
9.4.2.3 U-Factor Calculation—The thermal conductance
framed, and thinner wall assemblies. The ability to store heat
for each material observed in the wall assembly and the
delays and reduces heat transfer through the mass wall, which
thicknessofthatmaterialwillberequiredtodeterminethetotal
generally impacts the need or level of required additional
U-factor of the existing wall assembly. Unless there is repeti-
insulative materials.
tive and consistent thermal bridging, large air spaces or
9.2 The impact of the thermal mass should be carefully
non-homogenous wythes, a one-dimensional U-factor calcula-
evaluated prior to undertaking any alterations to the wall or the
tion should be sufficient for an estimate of the U-factor. If
addition of insulating materials to meet the U-factor require-
conditions create frequent or significant thermal bridging,
ment of energy codes.
two-dimensional heat flow software should be used to deter-
mine an overall U-factor.
9.3 U-factors do not account for the effects of thermal mass
(1) Published industry references can be used to determine
and may be inadequate in describing the heat transfer proper-
the thermal conductivity of each material if this data is not
ties of mass masonry walls when considered independently.
collected during evaluation of material properties provided the
The heat flow through the wall is dependent on the materials’
published values match the density and composition of the
density, thermal conductivity, specific heat, and thermal diffu-
materials within the wall assembly. With the thermal conduc-
sivity. Most energy codes and standards take the thermal mass
tivity values and the known existing material thicknesses, the
into account in a limited manner when stipulating the prescrip-
U-factor of the existi
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: E3069 − 19 E3069 − 19a
Standard Guide for
Evaluation and Rehabilitation of Mass Masonry Walls for
Changes to Thermal and Moisture Properties of the Wall
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3069; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This guide addresses the evaluation of existing mass masonry walls for the potential addition of interior insulation and
continuous air barrier or vapor retarder or other changes to the thermal and moisture management properties of the wall.
1.2 This guide describes methods for evaluating moisture accumulation related problems specific to mass masonry walls. This
guide does not apply to walls that include provisions to manage bulk water through internal drainage, flashings, or other measures
other than the moisture storage capacity of the wall.
1.3 This guide describes analysis, design, and specification of materials with the required thermal, air, and vapor resistance to
improve the energy performance of an existing mass masonry wall, but that would not create problematic conditions to the masonry
units or within the masonry wall or interior of the building.
1.4 This guide applies to walls of masonry construction meeting the requirements of a “mass masonry wall” as defined herein.
This guide does not apply to masonry walls that, by design, are intended to manage water as a barrier wall system or drainage wall
system.
1.5 The 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.
1.6 This 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.
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E06 on Performance of Buildings and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E06.24 on Building
Preservation and Rehabilitation Technology.
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2019Oct. 1, 2019. Published March 2019November 2019. Originally approved in 2017. Last previous edition approved in 20172019 as
E3069–17.–19. DOI: 10.1520/E3069–19.10.1520/E3069–19A.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E3069 − 19a
1.7 This 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.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
C20 Test Methods for Apparent Porosity, Water Absorption, Apparent Specific Gravity, and Bulk Density of Burned Refractory
Brick and Shapes by Boiling Water
C67/C67M Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and Structural Clay Tile
C1046 Practice for In-Situ Measurement of Heat Flux and Temperature on Building Envelope Components
C1155 Practice for Determining Thermal Resistance of Building Envelope Components from the In-Situ Data
C1498 Test Method for Hygroscopic Sorption Isotherms of Building Materials
C1794 Test Methods for Determination of the Water Absorption Coefficient by Partial Immersion
E96/E96M Test Methods for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials
E398 Test Method for Water Vapor Transmission Rate of Sheet Materials Using Dynamic Relative Humidity Measurement
E631 Terminology of Building Constructions
E2128 Guide for Evaluating Water Leakage of Building Walls
2.2 Other Standards:
ASHRAE 160 Criteria for Moisture-Control Design Analysis in Buildings
International Energy Conservation Code
Secretary of The Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 liquidabsorption, transport, n—absorption—describes the capillary uptake of water (liquid moisture) when the imbibing
surface is fully wetted. In the context of building physics, this corresponds to rain on a facade or retained water in an undrained
space.
3.1.2 liquid transport, redistribution—n—describes both the spreading of the imbibed water when the water source is shut off.
No new water is taken up by the material, and the water present in the material begins to redistribute. In a building component,
this corresponds to the moisture permeation in the absence of rain.initial uptake of liquid water (absorption) on a material surface
and the subsequent redistribution of liquid water through a material.
3.1.3 mass masonry wall—wall, n—wall constructed of masonry including all types of natural and unit masonry, not less than
8 in. thick (nominal), and where moisture storage within the wall is the mechanism for water management. Specifically the
masonry wall shall have the (nominal) with the ability to store and subsequently release bulk water.moisture.
3.1.3.1 Discussion—
In the context of this guide, moisture storage within the wall is the primary mechanism for water management.
3.1.4 moisture—moisture, n—generally refers to the presence of water in either the liquid or vapor form.
3.1.5 moisture issues—issues, n—refers to any complaint or deficiency attributable to moisture. Typical issues include moisture,
including but not limited to, occupant discomfort, biological growth, corrosion, wood decay, staining, freeze-thaw damage, or other
durability issue related to the presence of moisture.
3.1.6 moisture permeation—permeation, n—a process in which moisture (water or vapor) enters, flows, spreads within, and
discharges from a material.
3.1.7 waterredistribution, absorption—n—mass of water absorbed by a test specimen per face area and square root of
time.describes the spreading of the imbibed water when the water source is shut off and no new water is taken up by the material,
and the water present in the material begins to redistribute through the material.
3.2 See E631, Standard Terminology of Building Constructions, for general terminology.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. (ASHRAE), 1791 Tullie Circle, NE, Atlanta, GA 30329,
http://www.ashrae.org.
Available from International Code Council (ICC), 500 New Jersey Ave., NW, 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20001, http://www.iccsafe.org.
Available from Technical Preservation Services (TPS), National Park Service, 1849 C Street, NW, Mail Stop 7243, Washington, DC 20240, http://www.nps.gov/tps.
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4. Significance and Use
4.1 Energy conservation is being addressed more often on existing and historically significant buildings constructed with solid
exterior mass masonry walls. Without proper evaluation, changes to the thermal and moisture properties of the exterior walls could
have serious negative impacts on the existing masonry, new or existing wall components, and building operations.
4.2 A thorough understanding of the original construction and subsequent alterations, condition of materials, properties, initial
moisture content, water and air leakage potential, and building operations are necessary before undertaking the addition of interior
insulation, air barrier, vapor retarder, or other changes to thermal or vapor resistance of the wall.
4.3 Degradation of the existing masonry along with moisture related problematic conditions and indoor air quality issues could
develop if alterations are undertaken in an improper manner to the exterior wall assembly.
5. Review of Project Documents
5.1 Available construction documents should be reviewed as outlined in Guide E2128.
5.2 Prior to undertaking a field evaluation and, if available, the original documents from time of construction should be reviewed
to determine the general wall thickness, composition, and geometry. The presence of intentional annular spaces or other voids
should be identified.
5.3 Inspection reports, surveys, repair or alteration drawings, or other available documentation should be reviewed to gain a
better understanding of the current condition of the exterior walls.
5.4 Since many buildings featuring mass masonry walls were constructed prior to modern construction delivery methods, it is
recognized that construction documents are typically non-existent or limited. As such, any available photographs or other
documentation of the building throughout time should be reviewed to help identify which portions of the building or wall assembly
is original and which portions were added at later times.
6. Determination of Service History
6.1 Using the methods outlined in Guide E2128, a thorough evaluation of the building’s service history should be conducted.
The following activities should be included in the evaluation:
6.1.1 Documentation of physical symptoms of moisture damage or presence of moisture.
6.1.2 Interviews with occupants, maintenance staff, contractors, or other first-hand observers to correlate moisture related issues
with the building maintenance and operation history or weather patterns, or both. Changes to the building’s mechanical systems
or mechanical system operations should be determined as best as possible.
6.1.3 Review of maintenance and repair records for both the mechanical systems and building enclosure.
6.1.4 Review of vicinity weather records.
6.1.5 Correlations of moisture issues with other factors such as season of year, building elevations, wall height, interior
conditions or use.
6.2 If readily available, identify where the existing materials were sourced and review the performance of similar materials on
nearby existing buildings.
7. Initial Evaluation
7.1 The overall thickness of the wall should be determined or verified with field measurements at various locations throughout
the building.
7.2 When accurate drawings of each wall section are not available, it will be necessary to determine the wall composition and
wall assembly details of each critical or unique wall section.
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7.3 Mass masonry walls historically have been constructed with a wide range of materials to include, but not limited to: brick,
mortar, clay tile, concrete masonry units (CMU), terra cotta, cast stone, and stone.
7.4 The exact wall composition should be verified through small discrete exploratory openings. The historic integrity of the
existing wall should be carefully evaluated when selecting the locations to make the exploratory openings.
7.5 The wall composition can be determined through a combination of exterior and interior probes, borescopes, targeted
removals, and various non-destructive testing techniques. The number and size of the openings should be kept to the minimum that
is necessary to determine the composition of the wall, but sufficient to gather pertinent information on a representative sample of
existing construction. At a minimum, the following should be recorded:
7.5.1 Overall thickness of the wall;
7.5.2 Type of material(s) present within the wall. Distinguish original construction or retrofit materials where possible to include
ifidentify whether the existing masonry had previously been repaired or altered and to document the condition and presence of the
joint between original and retrofit materials;
7.5.3 Number of wythes;
7.5.4 Thickness of each material or wythe;
7.5.5 Condition and material type of each wythe;
7.5.6 Presence and thickness of collar joint or voids within the wythes;
7.5.7 Presence of water.
7.6 Examine the condition of all other materials making up the wall assembly. Determine if there is any existing evidence of
previous freeze-thaw damage. Determine if any corrosion of any metallic elements such as veneer ties or embedded structural
supports are present. Determine if there is any biological growth or other moisture related damage on existing organic materials.
7.7 If a collar joint is present, qualitatively assess how complete or full the joint is and its impact on air and moisture transport.
7.8 Qualitatively assess any air movement through and across the assembly to determine if drying potential is offered via
convection, utilizing methods such as infrared thermography, smoke pencil, or other visual observations.
7.9 Determine whether the existing masonry features an existing coating or water repellant on interior or exterior surfaces. If
so, determine what impact this product would have on the permeance and the liquid transport coefficient. Consideration should be
given to how this product has performed historically and what the expected useful service life is for the proposed product.
7.10 Simultaneously determine representative interior and exterior surface temperatures, ambient interior and exterior relative
humidity and temperature, building differential pressure and initial moisture contents and moisture permeation patterns of the
existing wall using procedures described in Field Determination of Existing Moisture Content (Appendix X1).
8. Evaluation of Material Properties
8.1 The properties of the materials comprising the wall, to include variations between the same type of material wall can vary
and will result in inaccurate hygrothermal models if testing to determine the properties of the actual material properties of each
component within the wall wall, including variation within a specific material, is not undertaken. Published generic material
property data may not match the existing materials in the building or structure and may not be specific enough to make valid
assumptions.
8.2 If possible, representative samples should either be removed from the interior from the locations of exploratory openings
or from other discrete locations. If a solid grout or collar joint is present, samples of such material should be included to determine
the hygrothermal material properties. Consideration should be given to the location and number of samples to be removed and
tested. Representative samples should be removed to ensure the variance in materials from the differing elevations, floors, and
wythes are evaluated.
8.3 The following hygrothermal material properties should be determined using testing procedures indicated. Published values
for a material of similar type and density are allowed to be used if samples are not available or project parameters will not afford
the time for laboratory testing:
8.3.1 Bulk density per Test Methods C20.
8.3.2 Moisture storage function (sorption-isotherm curve) per Test Method C1498.
8.3.3 Test Methods E96/E96M (or Test Method E398 for sheet materials) vapor permeance at range of moisture contents to
develop the permeance as a function of moisture content.
8.3.4 Porosity per Test Methods C20.
8.4 The following material properties should also be determined. Empirical testing required to determine these properties can
be costly and complex. It is acceptable to determine these properties analytically or using engineering judgment as described.
8.4.1 Heat Capacity—Selected using engineering judgment from published values in any of the referenced documents for a
material of similar density.
8.4.2 Thermal Conductivity—Selected using engineering judgment from published values in any of the referenced documents
for a material of similar density.
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8.4.3 Water Absorption Coeffıcient—Test Methods C1794.
8.4.4 Once the water absorption coefficient is known and the moisture content at free saturation is determined from the sorption
isotherm curve, the approximation of the liquid transport coefficient (absorption and redistribution) can be determined.
8.5 If the building is located in a region where freeze-thaw damage is of concern, the following properties should be determined
for any material included in the wall that would be subject to freeze-thaw exposure:
8.5.1 Saturation coefficient per Test Methods C67/C67M.
8.5.2 50 cycle freeze-thaw test per Test Methods C67/C67M.
8.6 Engineering judgment will be required to interpret the results of the brick material testing conducted in accordance with Test
Methods C67/C67M. A direct comparison of the values of historic masonry units should not be made to the requirements for
modern masonry materials as the properties of masonry materials may have changed over time.
9. Evaluation of As-Built Thermal Properties
9.1 Thermal mass, a property directly related to a wall’s heat capacity, is a phenomena that enables building materials to absorb,
store, and later release significant amounts of heat. The materials within the wall absorb energy slowly and hold it for longer
periods when compared to more light weight, modern framed, and thinner wall assemblies. The ability to store heat delays and
reduces heat transfer through the mass wall, which generally impacts the need or level of required additional insulative materials.
9.2 The impact of the thermal mass should be carefully evaluated prior to undertaking any alterations to the wall or the addition
of insulating materials to meet the U-factor requirement of energy codes.
9.3 U-factors do not account for the effects of thermal mass and may be inadequate in describing the heat transfer properties
of mass masonry walls when considered independently. The heat flow through the wall is dependent on the materials’ density,
thermal conductivity, specific heat, and thermal diffusivity. Most energy codes and standards take the thermal mass into account
in a limited manner when stipulating the prescriptive minimum insulation and U-factor requirements. As such, the U-factors and
insulation requirements prescribed in such codes and standards are reduced for mass walls.
9.4 The project specific energy improvement performance goals and metrics should be defined by the project team. The
compliance path of any particular codes and standards should be defined. Both the thermal mass of the existing wall and the
U-factor of the upgraded assembly should ultimately be considered when assessing the potential energy savings of the proposed
design compared to the existing performance. Alterations to the existing wall to improve energy performance should be evaluated
to ensure a positive impact without creating detrimental effects to the long term performance of the existing masonry.
9.4.1 Based on the project specific energy improvement goals and requirements, the need for additional insulating materials (if
any) should be carefully determined, evaluating the impacts of the existing thermal mass behavior of the wall and the targeted
energy performance.
9.4.2 The thermal properties of the wall should be evalua
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