ASTM E2841-19

Standard Guide for Conducting Inspections of Building Facades for Unsafe Conditions

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This guide is intended to provide building professionals with a methodology for conducting periodic condition assessments of building facades, for the purpose of determining if conditions exist in the subject facades that represent hazards to persons or property. It addresses the performance expectations and service history of a facade, the various components of a facade, and the interaction between these components and adjacent construction to provide a stable and reliable enclosure system. This guide was written as a parallel document to Practice E2270 as well as potential uses in conducting facade inspections as required by authorities having jurisdiction. Practice E2270 is written in the imperative form as a Standard Practice and is designed for adoption by specifying authorities. This guide is intended as a dissemination of explicit knowledge gained from experience of conducting periodic facade inspections. Implicit in this guide are general facade inspection techniques that have been tailored for periodic inspections. These tips and techniques are shared to provide a comprehensive template from which a facade inspection program can be tailored.  
4.1.1 Qualifications—Use of this guide requires knowledge of basic physics, construction and building exterior wall design principles and practices.  
4.1.2 Application—The sequential activities described herein are intended to produce a complete and comprehensive evaluation program, but all activities may not be applicable or necessary for a particular evaluation program. It is the responsibility of the professional using this guide to determine the activities and sequence necessary to perform an appropriate condition assessment for a specific building properly.  
4.1.3 Preliminary Assessment—A preliminary assessment may indicate that localized conditions in a wall system exist which are limited to a specific element or portion of a wall. The evaluation of causes may likewise be limited in scope, and the proce...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide is intended to establish procedures and methodologies for conducting inspections of building facades including those that meet inspection criteria for compliance with Practice E2270 as well as potential uses in conducting facade inspections as required by authorities having jurisdiction. For the purposes outlined in this guide, unsafe conditions are hazards which could result from loss of facade materials.  
1.2 Investigative techniques discussed may be intrusive, disruptive or destructive. It is the responsibility of the investigator to establish the limitations of use, to anticipate and advise of the destructive nature of some procedures, and to plan for patching and selective reconstruction as necessary.  
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.  
1.4 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. 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. Awareness of safety and familiarity with safe procedures are particularly important for aboveground operations on the exterior of a building and destructive investigative procedures that typically are associated with the work described in this standard.  
1.5 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
• Technical Committee: E06 - Performance of Buildings
• Drafting Committee: E06.55 - Performance of Building Enclosures

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM E2841-11 - Standard Guide for Conducting Inspections of Building Facades for Unsafe Conditions
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• Refers: ASTM E2270-14(2019) - Standard Practice for Periodic Inspection of Building Facades for Unsafe Conditions
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2019
• 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 E2270-14 - Standard Practice for Periodic Inspection of Building Facades for Unsafe Conditions
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2014
• Refers: ASTM E2505-07(2014) - Standard Practice for Industrial Rope Access
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2014
• Refers: ASTM E2270-13 - Standard Practice for Periodic Inspection of Building Facades for Unsafe Conditions
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2013
• Refers: ASTM E2505-07 - Standard Practice for Industrial Rope Access
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2007
• Refers: ASTM E631-06 - Standard Terminology of Building Constructions
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2006
• Refers: ASTM E2270-05 - Standard Practice for Periodic Inspection of Building Facades for Unsafe Conditions
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2005
• Refers: ASTM E2270-03 - Standard Practice for Periodic Inspection of Building Facades for Unsafe Conditions
• Effective Date: 10-May-2003
• Refers: ASTM E631-93a(1998)e1 - Standard Terminology of Building Constructions
• Effective Date: 28-Jul-2000

Overview

ASTM E2841-19: Standard Guide for Conducting Inspections of Building Facades for Unsafe Conditions provides a comprehensive methodology for building professionals to assess the safety and condition of building facades. The primary aim of this guide is to identify and address unsafe conditions, particularly those that result from the loss or deterioration of facade materials, which could pose hazards to persons or property. Designed as a knowledge-sharing and procedural resource, ASTM E2841-19 supports professionals in developing systematic facade inspection programs that fulfill the requirements of local authorities or complement similar standards like ASTM E2270.

Key Topics

• Systematic Inspection Process:
  ASTM E2841-19 outlines a clear, step-by-step approach for the inspection of building exteriors, covering document review, design evaluation, service history assessment, inspection procedures, and detailed analysis of findings.

• Scope of Application:
  The standard is applicable to all facade types and is particularly relevant for periodic inspections, as required by local codes or authorities. The guidance is adaptable so professionals can tailor their inspection programs based on specific building needs and constraints.

• Qualifications:
  Competent application of this guide requires knowledge in building physics, construction methods, and facade design principles to ensure thorough and accurate condition assessments.

• Inspection Techniques:
  The guide discusses a variety of investigative methodologies, from non-invasive visual inspections to more intrusive or destructive techniques, emphasizing the importance of proper planning, safety, and documentation.

• Safety Considerations:
  Due to the potential involvement of hazardous materials and above-ground operations, the standard highlights the need for establishing robust safety, health, and environmental practices before and during inspections.

Applications

ASTM E2841-19 is widely used for:

• Periodic Facade Assessment:
  Ensuring ongoing safety and compliance for apartment buildings, office towers, institutional facilities, and other structures through regular exterior wall inspections.

• Compliance Documentation:
  Satisfying requirements set by authorities having jurisdiction, especially in regions where building facade inspections are mandated by law or local ordinance.

• Maintenance & Repair Planning:
  Providing essential information for the development of maintenance schedules, and informing repair or restoration projects by identifying issues such as cracking, dislocation, water infiltration, and material deterioration.

• Risk Management:
  Minimizing liability and protecting occupants and the public by identifying potential hazards associated with aging or distressed facade systems.

• Professional Reporting:
  Assisting engineers, architects, and facility managers in organizing findings, supporting detailed condition assessment reports, and justifying recommended remediation strategies.

Related Standards

• ASTM E2270: Practice for Periodic Inspection of Building Facades for Unsafe Conditions-a related, more prescriptive standard designed for adoption by specifying authorities.
• ASTM E631: Terminology of Building Constructions-provides definitions relevant to facade inspection language.
• ASTM E2505: Practice for Industrial Rope Access-covers safe access methods for above-ground facade inspections.
• ASTM E3036: Guide for Notating Facade Conditions in the Field-supports consistent field documentation and notation practices.
• ASCE/SEI 7: Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures-relevant for understanding original design conditions and evaluating performance criteria.
• ASCE/SEI 37: Design Loads on Structures During Construction-pertinent when reviewing historical design data.

By aligning with ASTM E2841-19, building professionals can elevate the safety, performance, and longevity of building exteriors, stay compliant with regulations, and effectively manage risks associated with facade deterioration.

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: E2841 − 19
Standard Guide for
Conducting Inspections of Building Facades for Unsafe
Conditions
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E2841; 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 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This guide is intended to establish procedures and
E631 Terminology of Building Constructions
methodologies for conducting inspections of building facades
E2270 Practice for Periodic Inspection of Building Facades
including those that meet inspection criteria for compliance
for Unsafe Conditions
with Practice E2270 as well as potential uses in conducting
E2505 Practice for Industrial Rope Access
facade inspections as required by authorities having jurisdic-
E3036 Guide for Notating Facade Conditions in the Field
tion. For the purposes outlined in this guide, unsafe conditions
2.2 ASCE/SEI Standards:
are hazards which could result from loss of facade materials.
ASCE/SEI 7 Minimum Design Loads and Associated Crite-
1.2 Investigative techniques discussed may be intrusive,
ria for Buildings and Other Structures
disruptive or destructive. It is the responsibility of the investi-
ASCE/SEI 37 Design Loads on Structures during Construc-
gatortoestablishthelimitationsofuse,toanticipateandadvise
tion
of the destructive nature of some procedures, and to plan for
3. Terminology
patching and selective reconstruction as necessary.
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of general terms, refer to
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
Terminology E631.
as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
standard.
3.2.1 facade, n—a wall system including its exterior and
1.4 This standard may involve hazardous materials,
interior components, fenestration, structural components, and
operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to
components for maintaining the building interior environment
address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its
(also called building facade).
use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to
3.2.2 sheds:
establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental prac-
3.2.2.1 sidewalk shed, n—ashederectedalongasidewalkto
tices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations
protection pedestrians from overhead construction.
prior to use. Awareness of safety and familiarity with safe
3.2.2.2 light-duty shed, n—a sidewalk shed designed to
procedures are particularly important for aboveground opera-
support a live-load of 150 psf and as such not intended for
tions on the exterior of a building and destructive investigative
material or debris storage.
procedures that typically are associated with the work de-
3.2.2.3 heavy-duty shed, n—a sidewalk shed designed to
scribed in this standard.
support a live-load of 300 psf and may be used for the storage
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
of material or debris subject to weight limitations.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
4. Significance and Use
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
4.1 This guide is intended to provide building professionals
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
with a methodology for conducting periodic condition assess-
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ments of building facades, for the purpose of determining if
1 2
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E06 on Performance For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
of Buildings and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E06.55 on Perfor- contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
mance of Building Enclosures. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2019. Published November 2019. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 2011. Last previous edition approved in 2011 as E2841–11. DOI: Available from American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), 1801 Alexander
10.1520/E2841–19. Bell Dr., Reston, VA 20191, http://www.asce.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E2841 − 19
conditions exist in the subject facades that represent hazards to 4.2.3 As a diagnostic protocol for evaluating buildings for
persons or property. It addresses the performance expectations water leakage or other performance related problems.
and service history of a facade, the various components of a 4.2.4 As a sole evaluation of facade damage arising from
facade, and the interaction between these components and natural or manmade event/disasters.
adjacent construction to provide a stable and reliable enclosure
SYSTEMATIC APPROACH TO AN EVALUATION
system. This guide was written as a parallel document to
Practice E2270 as well as potential uses in conducting facade
5. Overview
inspections as required by authorities having jurisdiction.
5.1 The methodology presented in this guide is a systematic
Practice E2270 is written in the imperative form as a Standard
approach to evaluating the condition of exterior wall systems
Practice and is designed for adoption by specifying authorities.
and is intended to be applicable to any wall system or material.
Thisguideisintendedasadisseminationofexplicitknowledge
The basic principles are not intended to be material or
gained from experience of conducting periodic facade inspec-
component specific. Appendices to this document address
tions. Implicit in this guide are general facade inspection
material and system specific considerations. The sequence of
techniques that have been tailored for periodic inspections.
activities is intended to lead to an accumulation of information
These tips and techniques are shared to provide a comprehen-
in an orderly and efficient manner, so that each step enhances
sive template from which a facade inspection program can be
and supplements the information gathered in the preceding
tailored.
step.
4.1.1 Qualifications—Use of this guide requires knowledge
of basic physics, construction and building exterior wall design 5.2 Sequence of Activities—The recommended sequence of
principles and practices. activities, discussed in individual sections below, are:
4.1.2 Application—The sequential activities described 5.2.1 Review of available documents,
5.2.2 Evaluation of design concept,
herein are intended to produce a complete and comprehensive
evaluation program, but all activities may not be applicable or 5.2.3 Evaluation of known service history,
5.2.4 Inspection, and
necessary for a particular evaluation program. It is the respon-
sibility of the professional using this guide to determine the 5.2.5 Analysis of findings.
activities and sequence necessary to perform an appropriate
5.3 Analysis and Interpretation—The information system-
condition assessment for a specific building properly.
atically gathered during a condition assessment is analyzed as
4.1.3 Preliminary Assessment—A preliminary assessment
it is acquired. The sequential activities described in this guide
may indicate that localized conditions in a wall system exist
do not imply that analysis and interpretation of the information
whicharelimitedtoaspecificelementorportionofawall.The
occurs only at the completion of all activities or at any
evaluation of causes may likewise be limited in scope, and the
specified time(s).
procedures recommended herein abridged according to the
6. Review of Available Documents
professional judgment of the investigator.Astatement stipulat-
ing the limits of the investigation should be included in the
6.1 Review available documents which may include origi-
report.
nal construction drawings, specifications, shop drawings, field
4.1.4 Expectations—Expectations about the overall effec-
reports, test reports, reference codes/standards, and previous
tiveness of a condition assessment program must be
facade assessment reports. Documents representing local trade
reasonable, and in proportion to a defined scope of work and
practices as published by local trade groups may also exist.
the effort and resources applied to the task. The scope and
6.2 Design, Bidding, and Contract Documents—These
effort of facade inspections is defined by the purchaser and
documents include architectural and engineering drawings,
provider of such services. The objective is to be as compre-
specifications, and may also include calculations, wind tunnel
hensive as possible within a defined scope of work. The
reports, correspondence, meeting minutes, addenda, substitu-
methodology in this guide is intended to address the intrinsic
tionproposals,productliterature,testreports,etc.Theycontain
behavior of a facade system. Since every location throughout
the information necessary to understand the performance
thebuildingfacadeisnotlikelytobeincludedintheevaluation
criteria, the design intent, the required materials, and relation-
program, it is possible that localized conditions of distress may
ships among wall components according to the original design.
not be identified. Conditions that are localized or unique may
6.2.1 Documents may be revised or supplemented over the
remain, and require additional evaluation. The potential results
course of construction. Revisions to drawings are typically
andbenefitsoftheconditionassessmentprogramshouldnotbe
recorded by number and date, with a cross reference to other
over-represented.
accompanying documents. Reviewing all revisions and issu-
4.2 This guide is not intended for use as listed below. In
ances of the documents, and understanding the differences
each instance, more appropriate standards or guides exist.
between them and the reason for the differences, is part of a
4.2.1 As a design guide, design check, or a guide specifi-
comprehensive evaluation.
cation. Reference to design features of a wall is only for the
6.2.2 Documents with the most recent issue date and the
purpose of identifying items of interest for consideration in the
highest revision number establish the final design requirements
condition assessment process.
for the project. Ideally, a set of documents marked “as-built” or
4.2.2 As a construction quality control procedure, or as a “record set” intended to show the actual construction will be
preconstruction qualification procedure. available.
E2841 − 19
6.3 Referenced Codes and Standards—Project documents information in these documents may augment, modify, or
usually contain references to regulatory codes and industry supersede the design documents.
standards. Standards and referenced codes often contain de-
6.7 Previous Facade Assessment Reports—Some buildings
fault or minimum criteria that might have been relied upon to
may have been previously inspected in which case such reports
establish the performance criteria for the facade. Conflicting
should be reviewed.
requirements between referenced standards and codes, and
6.8 Local Workmanship Practices—Knowledge of local and
those explicitly stated in the project documents, should not be
historical practices will permit a more thorough assessment of
assumed to be a cause of distress within a facade without
the project design and construction. The actual construction
further investigation.
may be influenced in an undocumented manner by local
6.3.1 Regulatory codes and industry standards change over
practices.
time. The version of regulatory codes and industry standards
6.9 Missing Documents/Verification of Existing
examined as part of the review of project documents should be
Documents—Every reasonable effort should be made to verify
those listed with dates in the project documents, or if not listed
existingas-builtconditionsregardlessofthequantityorquality
with dates, those in effect when the building permit was issued.
of existing documents.
Understanding the history and background of referenced codes
and standards is part of a comprehensive evaluation.
6.10 Understanding the Information Gathered:
6.10.1 Reviewing the project documents should lead to a
6.4 Submittals—Additional documents are generally gener-
fundamental understanding of the constructed facades. Knowl-
ated after the award of contracts, and are submitted to the
edge gained from reviewing the available documents should be
design professional for review and inclusion in the project
utilized during subsequent tasks.
record. The submittals usually apply to a specific material,
6.10.2 Where possible, utilize existing building elevation
component, assembly or installation method, and the informa-
drawings or elevation/detail photographs to document related
tion contained will augment the background review. There are
information for subsequent tasks.
often a number of revisions to submittals prior to final
approval. The standard for the project is set by the submittals
7. Evaluation of Design Concept
approved by the design professional. Submittals include some
7.1 Performance Criteria—Review of the available docu-
or all of the following: shop drawings, test reports, product
ments should reveal what performance requirements were
literature, manufacturers’ recommendations, installation and
specified for the wall and how the wall as an assembly and its
maintenance guidelines, warranties, etc.
individual components are structured. Alternatively, the re-
6.4.1 Test reports provided by manufacturers and suppliers
quirements may have been implied through references to
should have been performed by an independent laboratory or
industry standards or local codes.
witnessed by an independent agency. Review the test dates and
7.2 Effıcacy of the Design—The facade design should be
the description of what was tested to determine if and how the
information actually applies to the project. consistent with the performance criteria so that the desired
performance can be achieved. The design should include
6.4.2 Manufacturers’ and suppliers’ information, and the
properly selected components. The details should provide for
exclusionary language in warranties, may suggest circum-
the interfacing and integration of components so that each one
stances under which a component may not function properly.
canperformbothindividuallyandcollectivelyasasystem.The
Project conditions should be evaluated to determine if an
details should also address issues such as construction
appropriate product selection was made.
tolerances, material compatibilities, volume changes, and dif-
6.4.3 Submittals should be reviewed for maintenance rec-
ferential movement of the frame and the facade. A careful
ommendations and guidelines.
evaluation of the efficacy of the design relative to the perfor-
6.5 Pre-Qualification: Laboratory Mock-Up and Onsite
mance criteria will indicate inconsistencies that may contribute
Mock-Up Reports—Compliance with project requirements
to distress or failure of facade components.
may have been demonstrated by a lab mock-up test. Mock-ups
7.2.1 The failure of a single facade component to perform at
ofcomplexfacadesrarelypassalltestsonthefirstattempt.The
the specified level does not automatically mean that it was the
mock-up report should contain a clear and complete descrip-
causeofdistress.Inevaluatingtheoverallwall,itshouldnotbe
tionofchangesmadetopassthetest.Projectdocumentsshould
assumed that the cause of functional or physical distress is a
incorporate these changes, and they should be reflected in the
single component simply because it does not satisfy stated or
actual construction. Failure to incorporate changes should be
published performance requirements.
considered as a potential causes of distress.
7.3 Exposure—Theperformancecriteriaintheprojectdocu-
6.6 Additional Construction, Field Inspections, and Field ments may have assumed exposure conditions that differ from
Testing Documents—Additional construction documents which actual exposure conditions of a subject building. Based on an
recordchanges,decisionsandactivitiesduringtheconstruction analysis of local weather conditions, and the location and
phase may include bulletins, requests for information (RFI), geometry of the building, identify the service conditions from
clarifications, change orders, directives, progress photos, field the actual exposure. These conditions can be correlated with
inspectionreports,testingdocumentationandqualityassurance
the service history, described in the next section, to help
reports,testreports,meetingminutes,andcorrespondence.The establish a protocol for the evaluation process.
E2841 − 19
7.4 Understanding Design Intent—Reviewing the design to dissipate water. These might have been sealed in an attempt
concept should lead to a fundamental understanding of the to stop leaks, and could exacerbate distress of internal and
intended performance of the constructed facades. Knowledge external wall components.
gained from understanding the design intent should be utilized 8.3.7 Evaluate the effect of attempted repairs on the original
during subsequent tasks. design intent. Common, but often ineffective, repairs made in
response to water leaks in walls include the application of
8. Determination of Service History
sealant and coating of exterior surfaces with clear water
repellents or elastomeric coatings. Inappropriate use of these
8.1 Gathering information on the service history serves
procedures can cause distress of components, such as:
several purposes. First, patterns in the observed behavior and
8.3.7.1 Sealant installed at drainage paths which entrap
visible damage can provide an indication of the cause(s) of
water within the facade. The application of additional sealant
behavior or damage, or both, and where to focus an investiga-
should not be made prior to evaluation of the total facade
tion. Second, and more importantly, the information provides a
except to correct obvious omissions. Entrapped water can lead
checklist against which failure theories and conclusions can be
to freeze/thaw damage, corrosion of internal and external
evaluated.
components, and deterioration of water sensitive components.
8.2 Interviews—Interview occupants, maintenance
8.3.7.2 Water repellents can affect the performances of
personnel, subcontractors, tradesmen or other first-hand ob-
future repairs, such as the adhesion of sealants or the bond of
servers. Obtain information which will help correlate distress
repointing mortar. These materials can also reduce the water
with building features and other events, such as:
vapor transmission rate of a wall assembly, affecting the
8.2.1 Water leakage,
weatherability of some materials.
8.2.2 Unusual noise,
8.3.7.3 Lowpermeancecoatingswillreducethewatervapor
8.2.3 Condensation,
transmission rate of the facade and can increase the time
8.2.4 Glass breakage,
required for water-saturated facades to dry. The application of
8.2.5 Dislocation or failure of wall components,
these materials can increase the amount of entrapped water if
8.2.6 Thermal movements,
other deficiencies exist.
8.2.7 Moisture related expansion/contraction,
8.4 Determine extent of known historic distress - Use the
8.2.8 Cracking or spalling of components, and
information gained above to determine the extent of known
8.2.9 Air infiltration or exfiltration.
historic distress in the facade and indications of performance
8.3 Maintenance, Repair, and Alteration Records—
problems.
Buildings with chronic facade problems are often subjected to
8.4.1 Attempt to correlate documented distress with specific
several attempts at remediation before a comprehensive evalu-
building features and details.
ation is made. An effort should be made to understand the
8.4.2 A graphical analysis is useful for correlation studies.
earlier attempts at repairs because: (1) they may indicate a
Distress and leakage occurrences can be superimposed on
pattern of behavior, such as water leakage; (2) although well
building elevation and plan drawings to help reveal patterns
intended, repairs may be causing or contributing to continuing
that might be traceable to specific types of details or compo-
distress; and (3) it will be helpful to distinguish between
nent failures.
original construction and attempted repairs during the inspec-
8.5 Correlations—Correlate known distress with other fac-
tion phases of a systematic evaluation. Where appropriate and
tors such as temperature and exposure.
possible:
8.5.1 Temperature—Ambient air temperature and wall sur-
8.3.1 Reviewtheoriginal,maintenance,repair,alteration,or
face temperature can greatly affect observed distress. Building
a combination thereof, project closeout comments or “punch
joints (control and expansion) and cracks in facade materials
list” if available. Problems may occur early in the life of a
are most likely at their widest when ambient temperatures are
building, and stop-gap repairs might have been made in an
low, and their narrowest when surface temperatures are high.
effort to close out the project.
8.3.2 Review purchase orders or contracts, or both, for
8.6 Understanding Service History—Determining the ser-
building maintenance and repair. Consider roofing, caulking
vice history should lead to a fundamental understanding of the
and sealants, pointing, painting, waterproofing, removing ef-
past performance of the facade. Documented, relative informa-
florescence or staining, and other activities that may relate to
tion gathered and knowledge gained from determining the
distress.
service history should be utilized during subsequent tasks.
8.3.3 Review maintenance work orders which deal with
9. Inspection
recurring issues with the same performance problem.
8.3.4 Evaluate the performance of previous repair attempts. 9.1 Inspections complement and extend the information
8.3.5 Compareoriginaldetailstoactualconditionsobserved gathered from the review of project documents and the service
to determine deviations from original design intent or undocu-
history. The major objectives of an inspection program are: to
mented repair attempts. determine as-built conditions, determine the current condition
8.3.6 Identify repairs or alterations that might have inadver- of the wall including both visible and concealed component
tently sealed weep holes or other openings and paths intended damage, and to formulate initial hypotheses about cause.
E2841 − 19
9.2 Determine As-Built Conditions—The various compo- 9.4.6 Possible mechanisms for water entry into a facade or
nents of the facade, including the structural support system, migration within a facade.
thermal and condensation control systems, sealants, water 9.4.7 Material conditions, including symptoms of
control systems and connectors should all work together to deterioration, freeze-thaw damage, prolonged saturation,
provide the desired facade performance. Project drawings delaminations, adhesive or cohesive material failures, efflores-
rarely d
...

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: E2841 − 11 E2841 − 19
Standard Guide for
Conducting Inspections of Building Facades for Unsafe
Conditions
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E2841; 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 is intended to establish procedures and methodologies for conducting inspections of building facades including
those that meet inspection criteria for compliance with Practice E2270. as well as potential uses in conducting facade inspections
as required by authorities having jurisdiction. For the purposes outlined in this guide, unsafe conditions are hazards which could
result from loss of facade materials.
1.2 Investigative techniques discussed may be intrusive, disruptive or destructive. It is the responsibility of the investigator to
establish the limitations of use, to anticipate and advise of the destructive nature of some procedures, and to plan for patching and
selective reconstruction as necessary.
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
standard.
1.4 This standard may involve hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all
of the safety problems concerns, if any, associated with its use. Establish appropriate safety and healthIt 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. Awareness of safety and familiarity with safe procedures are particularly important for
aboveground operations on the exterior of a building and destructive investigative procedures that typically are associated with
the work described in this standard.
1.5 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:
E631 Terminology of Building Constructions
E2270 Practice for Periodic Inspection of Building Facades for Unsafe Conditions
E2505 Practice for Industrial Rope Access
E3036 Guide for Notating Facade Conditions in the Field
2.2 SEI/ASCEASCE/SEI Standards:
SEI/ASCEASCE/SEI 7 Minimum Design Loads for Buildingand Associated Criteria for Buildings and Other Structures
SEI/ASCEASCE/SEI 37 Design Loads on Structures Duringduring Construction
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of general terms, refer to Terminology E631.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 facade—facade, n—a wall system including its exterior and interior components, fenestration, structural components, and
components for maintaining the building interior environment (also called building facade).
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E06 on Performance of Buildings and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E06.55 on Exterior Building
Wall SystemsPerformance of Building Enclosures.
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2011Oct. 1, 2019. Published January 2012November 2019. Originally approved in 2011. Last previous edition approved in 2011 as
E2841–11. DOI: 10.1520/E2841-11.10.1520/E2841–19.
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’sstandard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), 1801 Alexander Bell Dr., Reston, VA 20191, http://www.asce.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
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3.2.2 sheds:
3.2.2.1 sidewalk shed—shed, n—a shed erected along a sidewalk to protection pedestrians from overhead construction.
3.2.2.2 light-duty shed—shed, n—a sidewalk shed designed to support a live-load of 150 psf and as such not intended for
material or debris storage.
3.2.2.3 heavy-duty shed—shed, n—a sidewalk shed designed to support a live-load of 300 psf and may be used for the storage
of material or debris subject to weight limitations.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 This guide is intended to provide building professionals with a methodology for conducting periodic condition assessments
of building facades, for the purpose of determining if conditions exist in the subject facades that represent hazards to persons or
property. It addresses the performance expectations and service history of a facade, the various components of a facade, and the
interaction between these components and adjacent construction to provide a stable and reliable enclosure system. This guide was
written as a parallel document to Practice E2270. as well as potential uses in conducting facade inspections as required by
authorities having jurisdiction. Practice E2270 is written in the imperative form as a Standard Practice and is designed for adoption
by specifying authorities. This guide is intended as a dissemination of explicit knowledge gained from experience of conducting
periodic facade inspections. Implicit in this guide are general facade inspection techniques that have been tailored for periodic
inspections. These tips and techniques are shared to provide a comprehensive template from which a facade inspection program
can be tailored.
4.1.1 Qualifications—QualificationsUse—Use of this guide requires knowledge of basic physics, construction and building
exterior wall design principles and practices.
4.1.2 Application—ApplicationThe—The sequential activities described herein are intended to produce a complete and
comprehensive evaluation program, but all activities may not be applicable or necessary for a particular evaluation program. It is
the responsibility of the professional using this guide to determine the activities and sequence necessary to perform an appropriate
condition assessment for a specific building properly.
4.1.3 Preliminary Assessment—Preliminary AssessmentA —A preliminary assessment may indicate that localized conditions in
a wall system exist which are limited to a specific element or portion of a wall. The evaluation of causes may likewise be limited
in scope, and the procedures recommended herein abridged according to the professional judgment of the investigator. A statement
stipulating the limits of the investigation should be included in the report.
4.1.4 Expectations—Expectations—Expectations about the overall effectiveness of a condition assessment program must be
reasonable, and in proportion to a defined scope of work and the effort and resources applied to the task. The scope and effort of
facade inspections is defined by the purchaser and provider of such services. The objective is to be as comprehensive as possible
within a defined scope of work. The methodology in this guide is intended to address the intrinsic behavior of a facade system.
Since every location throughout the building facade is not likely to be included in the evaluation program, it is possible that
localized conditions of distress may not be identified. Conditions that are localized or unique may remain, and require additional
evaluation. The potential results and benefits of the condition assessment program should not be over-represented.
4.2 This guide is not intended for use as listed below. In each instance, more appropriate standards or guides exist.
4.2.1 As a design guide, design check, or a guide specification. Reference to design features of a wall is only for the purpose
of identifying items of interest for consideration in the condition assessment process.
4.2.2 As a construction quality control procedure, or as a preconstruction qualification procedure.
4.2.3 As a diagnostic protocol for evaluating buildings for water leakage or other performance related problems.
4.2.4 As a sole evaluation of façadefacade damage arising from natural or manmade event/disasters.
SYSTEMATIC APPROACH TO AN EVALUATION
5. Overview
5.1 The methodology presented in this guide is a systematic approach to evaluating the condition of exterior wall systems and
is intended to be applicable to any wall system or material. The basic principles are not intended to be material or component
specific. Appendices to this document address material and system specific considerations. The sequence of activities is intended
to lead to an accumulation of information in an orderly and efficient manner, so that each step enhances and supplements the
information gathered in the preceding step.
5.2 Sequence of Activities—Sequence of ActivitiesThe —The recommended sequence of activities, discussed in individual
sections below, are:
5.2.1 Review of available documents,
5.2.2 Evaluation of design concept,
5.2.3 Evaluation of known service history,
5.2.4 Inspection, and
5.2.5 Analysis of findings.
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5.3 Analysis and Interpretation—Analysis and InterpretationThe —The information systematically gathered during a condition
assessment is analyzed as it is acquired. The sequential activities described in this guide do not imply that analysis and
interpretation of the information occurs only at the completion of all activities or at any specified time(s).
6. Review of Available Documents
6.1 Review available documents which may include original construction drawings, specifications, shop drawings, field reports,
test reports, reference codes/standards, and previous facade assessment reports. Documents representing local trade practices as
published by local trade groups may also exist.
6.2 Design, Bidding, and Contract Documents—Design, Bidding, and Contract DocumentsThese —These documents include
architectural and engineering drawings, specifications, and may also include calculations, wind tunnel reports, correspondence,
meeting minutes, addenda, substitution proposals, product literature, test reports, etc. They contain the information necessary to
understand the performance criteria, the design intent, the required materials, and relationships among wall components according
to the original design.
6.2.1 Documents may be revised or supplemented over the course of construction. Revisions to drawings are typically recorded
by number and date, with a cross reference to other accompanying documents. Reviewing all revisions and issuances of the
documents, and understanding the differences between them and the reason for the differences, is part of a comprehensive
evaluation.
6.2.2 Documents with the most recent issue date and the highest revision number establish the final design requirements for the
project. Ideally, a set of documents marked "as-built"“as-built” or "record set"“record set” intended to show the actual construction
will be available.
6.3 Referenced Codes and Standards—Referenced Codes and StandardsProject —Project documents usually contain references
to regulatory codes and industry standards. Standards and referenced codes often contain default or minimum criteria that might
have been relied upon to establish the performance criteria for the facade. Conflicting requirements between referenced standards
and codes, and those explicitly stated in the project documents, should not be assumed to be a cause of distress within a facade
without further investigation.
6.3.1 Regulatory codes and industry standards change over time. The version of regulatory codes and industry standards
examined as part of the review of project documents should be those listed with dates in the project documents, or if not listed
with dates, those in effect when the building permit was issued. Understanding the history and background of referenced codes and
standards is part of a comprehensive evaluation.
6.4 Submittals—SubmittalsAdditional—Additional documents are generally generated after the award of contracts, and are
submitted to the design professional for review and inclusion in the project record. The submittals usually apply to a specific
material, component, assembly or installation method, and the information contained will augment the background review. There
are often a number of revisions to submittals prior to final approval. The standard for the project is set by the submittals approved
by the design professional. Submittals include some or all of the following: shop drawings, test reports, product literature,
manufacturers’ recommendations, installation and maintenance guidelines, warranties, etc.
6.4.1 Test reports provided by manufacturers and suppliers should have been performed by an independent laboratory or
witnessed by an independent agency. Review the test dates and the description of what was tested to determine if and how the
information actually applies to the project.
6.4.2 Manufacturers’ and suppliers’ information, and the exclusionary language in warranties, may suggest circumstances under
which a component may not function properly. Project conditions should be evaluated to determine if an appropriate product
selection was made.
6.4.3 Submittals should be reviewed for maintenance recommendations and guidelines.
6.5 Pre-Qualification: Laboratory Mock-Up and Onsite Mock-Up Reports—Pre-Qualification: Laboratory Mock-Up and Onsite
Mock-Up ReportsCompliance —Compliance with project requirements may have been demonstrated by a lab mock-up test.
Mock-ups of complex facades rarely pass all tests on the first attempt. The mock-up report should contain a clear and complete
description of changes made to pass the test. Project documents should incorporate these changes, and they should be reflected in
the actual construction. Failure to incorporate changes should be considered as a potential causes of distress.
6.6 Additional Construction, Field Inspections, and Field Testing Documents—Additional Construction, Field Inspections, and
Field Testing Documents—Additional construction documents which record changes, decisions and activities during the
construction phase may include bulletins, requests for information (RFI), clarifications, change orders, directives, progress photos,
field inspection reports, testing documentation and quality assurance reports, test reports, meeting minutes, and correspondence.
The information in these documents may augment, modify, or supersede the design documents.
6.7 Previous Facade Assessment Reports—Previous Facade Assessment ReportsSome —Some buildings may have been
previously inspected in which case such reports should be reviewed.
6.8 Local Workmanship Practices—Local Workmanship PracticesKnowledge —Knowledge of local and historical practices
will permit a more thorough assessment of the project design and construction. The actual construction may be influenced in an
undocumented manner by local practices.
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6.9 Missing Documents/Verification of Existing Documents—Missing Documents/Verification of Existing DocumentsEvery
—Every reasonable effort should be made to verify existing as-built conditions regardless of the quantity or quality of existing
documents.
6.10 Understanding the Information Gathered:Understanding the Information Gathered:
6.10.1 Reviewing the project documents should lead to a fundamental understanding of the constructed facades. Knowledge
gained from reviewing the available documents should be utilized during subsequent tasks.
6.10.2 Where possible, utilize existing building elevation drawings or elevation/detail photographs to document related
information for subsequent tasks.
7. Evaluation of Design Concept
7.1 Performance Criteria—Performance CriteriaReview —Review of the available documents should reveal what performance
requirements were specified for the wall and how the wall as an assembly and its individual components are structured.
Alternatively, the requirements may have been implied through references to industry standards or local codes.
7.2 Effıcacy of the Design—Efficacy of the DesignThe —The facade design should be consistent with the performance criteria
so that the desired performance can be achieved. The design should include properly selected components. The details should
provide for the interfacing and integration of components so that each one can perform both individually and collectively as a
system. The details should also address issues such as construction tolerances, material compatibilities, volume changes, and
differential movement of the frame and the facade. A careful evaluation of the efficacy of the design relative to the performance
criteria will indicate inconsistencies that may contribute to distress or failure of facade components.
7.2.1 The failure of a single facade component to perform at the specified level does not automatically mean that it was the cause
of distress. In evaluating the overall wall, it should not be assumed that the cause of functional or physical distress is a single
component simply because it does not satisfy stated or published performance requirements.
7.3 Exposure—ExposureThe—The performance criteria in the project documents may have assumed exposure conditions that
differ from actual exposure conditions of a subject building. Based on an analysis of local weather conditions, and the location and
geometry of the building, identify the service conditions from the actual exposure. These conditions can be correlated with the
service history, described in the next section, to help establish a protocol for the evaluation process.
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7.4 Understanding Design Intent—Understanding Design IntentReviewing —Reviewing the design concept should lead to a
fundamental understanding of the intended performance of the constructed facades. Knowledge gained from understanding the
design intent should be utilized during subsequent tasks.
8. Determination of Service History
8.1 Gathering information on the service history serves several purposes. First, patterns in the observed behavior and visible
damage can provide an indication of the cause(s) of behavior or damage, or both, and where to focus an investigation. Second,
and more importantly, the information provides a checklist against which failure theories and conclusions can be evaluated.
8.2 Interviews—InterviewsInterview—Interview occupants, maintenance personnel, subcontractors, tradesmen or other first-
hand observers. Obtain information which will help correlate distress with building features and other events, such as:
8.2.1 Water leakage,
8.2.2 Unusual noise,
8.2.3 Condensation,
8.2.4 Glass breakage,
8.2.5 Dislocation or failure of wall components,
8.2.6 Thermal movements,
8.2.7 Moisture related expansion/contraction,
8.2.8 Cracking or spalling of components, and
8.2.9 Air infiltration or exfiltration.
8.3 Maintenance, Repair, and Alteration Records—Maintenance, Repair, and Alteration RecordsBuildings —Buildings with
chronic facade problems are often subjected to several attempts at remediation before a comprehensive evaluation is made. An
effort should be made to understand the earlier attempts at repairs because: (1) they may indicate a pattern of behavior, such as
water leakage; (2) although well intended, repairs may be causing or contributing to continuing distress; and (3) it will be helpful
to distinguish between original construction and attempted repairs during the inspection phases of a systematic evaluation. Where
appropriate and possible:
8.3.1 Review the original, maintenance, repair, alteration, or a combination thereof, project closeout comments or "punch
list"“punch list” if available. Problems may occur early in the life of a building, and stop-gap repairs might have been made in
an effort to close out the project.
8.3.2 Review purchase orders or contracts, or both, for building maintenance and repair. Consider roofing, caulking and sealants,
pointing, painting, waterproofing, removing efflorescence or staining, and other activities that may relate to distress.
8.3.3 Review maintenance work orders which deal with recurring issues with the same performance problem.
8.3.4 Evaluate the performance of previous repair attempts.
8.3.5 Compare original details to actual conditions observed to determine deviations from original design intent or
undocumented repair attempts.
8.3.6 Identify repairs or alterations that might have inadvertently sealed weep holes or other openings and paths intended to
dissipate water. These might have been sealed in an attempt to stop leaks, and could exacerbate distress of internal and external
wall components.
8.3.7 Evaluate the effect of attempted repairs on the original design intent. Common, but often ineffective, repairs made in
response to water leaks in walls include the application of sealant and coating of exterior surfaces with clear water repellents or
elastomeric coatings. Inappropriate use of these procedures can cause distress of components, such as:
8.3.7.1 Sealant installed at drainage paths which entrap water within the facade. The application of additional sealant should not
be made prior to evaluation of the total facade except to correct obvious omissions. Entrapped water can lead to freeze/thaw
damage, corrosion of internal and external components, and deterioration of water sensitive components.
8.3.7.2 Water repellents can affect the performances of future repairs, such as the adhesion of sealants or the bond of repointing
mortar. These materials can also reduce the water vapor transmission rate of a wall assembly, affecting the weatherability of some
materials.
8.3.7.3 Low permeance coatings will reduce the water vapor transmission rate of the facade and can increase the time required
for water-saturated facades to dry. The application of these materials can increase the amount of entrapped water if other
deficiencies exist.
8.4 Determine extent of known historic distress - Use the information gained above to determine the extent of known historic
distress in the facade and indications of performance problems.
8.4.1 Attempt to correlate documented distress with specific building features and details.
8.4.2 A graphical analysis is useful for correlation studies. Distress and leakage occurrences can be superimposed on building
elevation and plan drawings to help reveal patterns that might be traceable to specific types of details or component failures.
8.5 Correlations—CorrelationsCorrelate—Correlate known distress with other factors such as temperature and exposure.
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8.5.1 Temperature—TemperatureAmbient—Ambient air temperature and wall surface temperature can greatly affect observed
distress. Building joints (control and expansion) and cracks in facade materials are most likely at their widest when ambient
temperatures are low, and their narrowest when surface temperatures are high.
8.6 Understanding Service History—Understanding Service HistoryDetermining —Determining the service history should lead
to a fundamental understanding of the past performance of the facade. Documented, relative information gathered and knowledge
gained from determining the service history should be utilized during subsequent tasks.
9. Inspection
9.1 Inspections complement and extend the information gathered from the review of project documents and the service history.
The major objectives of an inspection program are: to determine as-built conditions, determine the current condition of the wall
including both visible and concealed component damage, and to formulate initial hypotheses about cause.
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9.2 Determine As-Built Conditions—Determine As-Built ConditionsThe —The various components of the facade, including the
structural support system, thermal and condensation control systems, sealants, water control systems and connectors should all
work together to provide the desired facade performance. Project drawings rarely depict the relationships among all of these
components of a facade completely and accurately. The inspection process shou
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