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D5957-98 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📐 Scope and Applicability
This standard guide covers flood testing of horizontal waterproofing installations with a slope not greater than 20 mm/m (2% slope) or 1⁄4 in. per ft. It is intended for waterproofing on parking garages and plaza decks over habitable spaces or elevated structures, but explicitly excludes building roofing systems. The guide applies to fully adhered or bonded sheet membranes, liquid or fluid-applied membranes, and loose-laid sheet membranes. It is not suitable for long-term water storage or continuously submerged environments such as swimming pools, fountains, tank liners with hydrostatic pressure, or water storage units with storage periods exceeding 48 hours.
⚙️ Test Procedure and Requirements
The test method uses temporary containment assemblies to pond water on horizontal surfaces. The area to be tested is subdivided as necessary by these assemblies, and drains within the subdivided area are temporarily blocked to prevent water leakage into the drainage system. Water is ponded and maintained for a minimum period of 24 hours, during which the space below the test location is continuously monitored for signs of leakage. A sacrificial sheet may be used to form a temporary seal between the containment assembly and the waterproofing system, provided it does not cause damage or be detrimental to the primary system.
📊 Key Specifications and Technical Data
The following table summarizes critical parameters from the standard for flood testing horizontal waterproofing installations.
| 🟦 Parameter | 📏 Requirement |
|---|---|
| Maximum Slope | 20 mm/m (2% slope) or 1⁄4 in. per ft |
| Minimum Test Duration | 24 hours |
| Applicable Membrane Types | Fully adhered/bonded sheet, fluid-applied, loose-laid sheet |
| Excluded Applications | Building roofing, continuous water storage (>48 h), swimming pools, fountains, tank liners |
⚠️ Important Note: This guide is not intended for building roofing systems or applications with long-term water storage (over 48 hours). For such scenarios, refer to alternative standardized methods. Always verify slope requirements before testing.
💡 Technical Tip: Measure the slope accurately at multiple points to ensure it does not exceed 20 mm/m (2% slope) or 1⁄4 in. per ft. Use a level and measuring tape for precise assessment to avoid invalid test results.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What types of surfaces are covered by this standard?
This standard covers horizontal surfaces with a slope not greater than 20 mm/m (2% slope), specifically for waterproofing installations on parking garages and plaza decks over habitable spaces or elevated structures.
💡 How is the watertightness test performed?
Water is ponded on the test area using temporary containment assemblies for at least 24 hours, while the area below is logged for leakage. Drains are blocked to prevent water escape, and sacrificial sheets may be used for sealing.
⚡ What is a sacrificial sheet and why is it used?
A sacrificial sheet is a material used to form a temporary seal between the containment assembly and the waterproofing system. It must not damage the primary membrane and helps ensure a watertight containment for testing.
📌 Can this guide be used for roofing systems?
No, this guide is explicitly not intended for building roofing systems. It is designed for waterproofing applications on parking garages and plaza decks over habitable spaces or elevated structures, as noted in the scope.