4.1 General:

4.1.1 Non metallic reinforced Portland cement based plaster are vertically applied exterior wall claddings that may be subject to variety of conditions over the claddings service life. These test methods evaluate performance under a variety of test conditions and exposures. Any given project may not be subject to all of the test conditions described herein and all of the test methods may not evaluate all exposures for a given project.

4.2 Transverse Load:

4.2.1 This test method determines the ultimate wind load resistance of the wall assembly including influence of the framing, sheathing, and means of attachment.

4.3 Vertical Load:

4.3.1 The weight and attachment mechanism of Portland cement Based Plaster results in a vertical load transfer to the plaster base. This test method determines the ultimate vertical load capacity of the cladding assembly based on taking the specimen to failure.

4.4 Embedment:

4.4.1 Plaster bases serve as a key, reinforcement and attachment mechanism for Portland cement based plaster. The thickness, profile, and material properties of the plaster bases must be such that it is adequately embedded in the Portland cement based plaster. This can be accomplished through use of a self furred non metallic plaster base or other means such as furring strips. This test method determines the effectiveness of the furring mechanism to ensure that the minimum embedment is obtained.

4.5 Fastener Pull Through Resistance:

4.5.1 The non metallic lath is secured to the building frame or substrate with fasteners. This test method evaluates the fastener attachment effectiveness.

4.6 Alkali Resistance (Test Method Applies to Glass Fiber Materials Only):

4.6.1 In accordance with Test Method E2098/E2098M.