ABSTRACT
A simple and effective method of detecting and locating unseen water intrusion in a wall assembly was used during an ASTM E 11051 spray-rack test of a stucco-clad wall. Specially designed strips of detection tape with two flat copper conductors were applied to the interior surface of the gypsum sheathing at every stud bay in the test area. Several pairs of metal probes were inserted through the detection tape and into the sheathing along each vertical strip. Resistance measurements were made at frequent intervals during the test. A clear signature of water intrusion was obtained where no visible signs were apparent. The individual response of the probe sets was then determined by performing a “probe pull” and noting any change in the resistance reading. Specific water intrusion points were easily identified and located. This technique provides a simple and useful field test method to detect and to locate envelope failures that would otherwise be missed by visual observation alone.
