Description

This avaluation method (EM7) represents a series of tests from AS/NZS 4284:2008 Testing of building facades, with specific nominated values for the performance levels.

EM7 provides a means of assessing the weathertightness-oriented performance of generic domestic-oriented external wall cladding systems for use on buildings between 10m and 25m in height and expects that a drained and ventilated cavity is used as part of the cladding design.

The aim is to provide a test with a consistent set of parameters for use in the design of claddings for mid-rise building.

Scope

The scope of EM7 is restricted to buildings that:

• have a height measured from the lowest ground level adjacent to the building to the highest point of the roof (except for chimneys, aerials and the like) of 25m or less
• have cladding systems exposed to a specific peak positive SLS air pressure of up to 2.25kPa (ULS 3.2kPa)
• have claddings that include a drained and ventilated cavity of 20mm minimum depth with an inter-storey horizontal drainage joint every 2 floors, or 7.0m, and minimum ventilation openings of 1000mm²/m
• include window and door units that are manufactured to comply with the relevant pressures and inter-storey deflections
• have interp-storey deflections design for up to +15mm of horizontal in-plane movement during seismic SLS events assuming a 3m inter-storey height (height/200)
• have cladding supported on lightweight framing (expected to be timber or light steel framing) with studs at centres no greater than 600mm that is structurally connected to the floor at each level of the building - this evaluation method is not intended to be used with infill framing that is isolated from structural movement of the building
• have a rigid building underlay affixed to the framing