ASTM D5401-03(2022)
(Test Method)Standard Test Method for Evaluating Clear Water Repellent Coatings on Wood
Standard Test Method for Evaluating Clear Water Repellent Coatings on Wood
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 Water is known to penetrate wood substrates, causing dimensional instability and eventual deterioration. Clear water repellent coatings are designed to protect wood from damaging effects of water. This test method is used to evaluate the effectiveness of water repellent coatings on wood soon after application or after long-term exterior exposure.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method evaluates the effectiveness of clear water repellent coatings on wood before or after exterior exposure.
1.2 Intralaboratory results with this test method can be used to compare the effectiveness of clear water repellent coatings. The agreement between results obtained in different laboratories may be less satisfactory unless a known water repellent is used as a reference.
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.4 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.
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-Nov-2022
- Technical Committee
- D01 - Paint and Related Coatings, Materials, and Applications
- Drafting Committee
- D01.42 - Architectural Coatings
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2011
- Refers
ASTM D1006-01(2006) - Standard Practice for Conducting Exterior Exposure Tests of Paints on Wood - Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2006
- Effective Date
- 01-Aug-2006
- Effective Date
- 01-Mar-2006
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2005
- Effective Date
- 10-Jun-2001
- Effective Date
- 10-Jun-2001
- Effective Date
- 10-Feb-1999
- Effective Date
- 10-Feb-1999
- Refers
ASTM D358-98 - Standard Specification for Wood to Be Used as Panels in Weathering Tests of Coatings - Effective Date
- 10-May-1998
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-1996
Overview
ASTM D5401-03(2022), titled Standard Test Method for Evaluating Clear Water Repellent Coatings on Wood, is a widely referenced standard published by ASTM International. This standard provides a systematic test method to assess the effectiveness of clear water repellent coatings applied to wood surfaces, applicable both soon after application and following long-term outdoor exposure. Its main objective is to help minimize water penetration in wood, which contributes to dimensional instability and potential deterioration over time.
Adherence to ASTM D5401-03(2022) supports manufacturers, quality control laboratories, and product developers in determining and comparing the water-repellent performance of coatings, ensuring consistency, reliability, and long-term durability for wood-based products.
Key Topics
Purpose of Water Repellent Coatings
Water repellents play a critical role in protecting wood by preventing moisture ingress, which can lead to swelling, warping, and decay.Test Method Overview
- Selection and preparation of straight-grained, knot-free, kiln-dried wood specimens
- Application of clear water repellent coatings and necessary conditioning steps
- Measurement protocols including initial and post-immersion weights to quantify water uptake
- Comparative analysis against untreated control specimens
Performance Comparison
- Intralaboratory (within a single laboratory) comparisons to evaluate different coatings
- Importance of using reference materials when comparing results between different laboratories
Test Parameters
- Standard conditioning and weighing procedures ensure consistency
- Exterior exposure (weathering) can be included to assess long-term effectiveness
Data Reporting
- Calculation of water repellent efficiency (WRE)
- Reporting of mean weights and detailed test deviations
Applications
ASTM D5401-03(2022) is highly applicable across various segments of the wood protection and coatings industry:
Product Development and R&D
Enables manufacturers to rigorously test new formulations for clear water repellent coatings, supporting data-driven optimization for both residential and commercial wood products.Quality Control
Laboratories and production lines implement this standard to compare batch consistency, validate product quality, and certify compliance with established moisture protection benchmarks.Specification and Procurement
Architects, builders, and procurement professionals reference this standard in construction and restoration projects to ensure wood materials meet required water repellency criteria.Comparative Benchmarking
Allows straightforward performance comparison among coatings from different suppliers, aiding procurement decisions and consumer transparency.Longevity and Durability Assurance
Assessment after outdoor weathering supports claims regarding the long-term durability of protective treatments on wood surfaces, critical for high-exposure environments.
Related Standards
Organizations may use ASTM D5401-03(2022) in conjunction with other ASTM standards or industry references for comprehensive evaluation:
- ASTM D358 – Specification for Wood to Be Used as Panels in Weathering Tests of Coatings (withdrawn, but historically referenced)
- ASTM D1006 – Practice for Conducting Exterior Exposure Tests of Hand and Factory Applied Paints on Wood
- ASTM D1193 – Specification for Reagent Water
- ASTM D3924 – Specification for Standard Environment for Conditioning and Testing Paint, Varnish, Lacquer, and Related Materials
Summary
By following ASTM D5401-03(2022), stakeholders ensure that clear water repellent coatings are rigorously tested, consistently compared, and reliably documented. This standard supports the ongoing improvement of wood protection products, contributing to the longevity and performance of wood in diverse applications-from residential decking to commercial construction. For the latest information and access to related methods, users should consult the ASTM International website.
Keywords: clear water repellent, evaluation, ASTM standard, wood coatings, moisture protection, architectural coatings, water repellents, quality testing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D5401-03(2022) is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Method for Evaluating Clear Water Repellent Coatings on Wood". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Water is known to penetrate wood substrates, causing dimensional instability and eventual deterioration. Clear water repellent coatings are designed to protect wood from damaging effects of water. This test method is used to evaluate the effectiveness of water repellent coatings on wood soon after application or after long-term exterior exposure. SCOPE 1.1 This test method evaluates the effectiveness of clear water repellent coatings on wood before or after exterior exposure. 1.2 Intralaboratory results with this test method can be used to compare the effectiveness of clear water repellent coatings. The agreement between results obtained in different laboratories may be less satisfactory unless a known water repellent is used as a reference. 1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.4 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. 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.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 Water is known to penetrate wood substrates, causing dimensional instability and eventual deterioration. Clear water repellent coatings are designed to protect wood from damaging effects of water. This test method is used to evaluate the effectiveness of water repellent coatings on wood soon after application or after long-term exterior exposure. SCOPE 1.1 This test method evaluates the effectiveness of clear water repellent coatings on wood before or after exterior exposure. 1.2 Intralaboratory results with this test method can be used to compare the effectiveness of clear water repellent coatings. The agreement between results obtained in different laboratories may be less satisfactory unless a known water repellent is used as a reference. 1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard. 1.4 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. 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.
ASTM D5401-03(2022) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 71.100.50 - Wood-protecting chemicals. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM D5401-03(2022) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM D3924-16, ASTM D3924-80(2011), ASTM D1006-01(2006), ASTM D358-98(2006), ASTM D1193-06, ASTM D3924-80(2005), ASTM D1006-01, ASTM D1006-93, ASTM D1193-99, ASTM D1193-99e1, ASTM D358-98, ASTM D3924-80(1996). Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM D5401-03(2022) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
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: D5401 − 03 (Reapproved 2022)
Standard Test Method for
Evaluating Clear Water Repellent Coatings on Wood
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5401; 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 D1193 Specification for Reagent Water
D3924 Specification for Standard Environment for Condi-
1.1 This test method evaluates the effectiveness of clear
tioning and Testing Paint, Varnish, Lacquer, and Related
water repellent coatings on wood before or after exterior
Materials
exposure.
1.2 Intralaboratory results with this test method can be used
3. Terminology
to compare the effectiveness of clear water repellent coatings.
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
The agreement between results obtained in different laborato-
3.1.1 clear water repellent coating, n—a transparent coating
ries may be less satisfactory unless a known water repellent is
formulated for the purpose of protecting porous substrates by
used as a reference.
preventing the penetration of liquid water.
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
4. Summary of Test Method
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
4.1 FivePonderosapinespecimensaretreatedwiththeclear
and are not considered standard.
water repellent under test and allowed to dry for seven days.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
Five untreated specimens serve as controls. The treated and
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
untreatedspecimensareeachweighedandthenallowedtofloat
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
in water for 30 min. The specimens are removed, the excess
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
water is wiped off, and each are reweighed. The effectiveness
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
of the water repellent coating is then calculated.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
5. Significance and Use
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
5.1 Water is known to penetrate wood substrates, causing
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
dimensional instability and eventual deterioration. Clear water
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
repellent coatings are designed to protect wood from damaging
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
effects of water. This test method is used to evaluate the
2. Referenced Documents effectiveness of water repellent coatings on wood soon after
2 application or after long-term exterior exposure.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D358 Specification for Wood to Be Used as Panels in
6. Apparatus
Weathering Tests of Coatings (Withdrawn 2014)
D1006 Practice for Conducting Exterior Exposure Tests of 6.1 Conditioning Room or Chamber, having a controlled
temperature of 73.5 °F 6 3.5 °F (23 °C 6 2 °C) and a
Hand and Factory Applied Paints on Wood and Wood
Composite Materials controlled relative humidity of 50 % 6 5 % as described in
Specification D3924. This is used to establish a uniform
moisture content in the test specimens and during the test.
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D01 on Paint
and Related Coatings, Materials, andApplications and is the direct responsibility of
6.2 Balance, accurate to at least 0.1 g.
Subcommittee D01.42 on Architectural Coatings.
Current edition approved Dec. 1, 2022. Published December 2022. Originally 6.3 Saw, sharp, fine-toothed, with a minimum of ten teeth/
approved in 1993. Last previous edition approved in 2014 as D5401 – 03 (2014).
in. to obtain a smooth surface on the test specimen.
DOI: 10.1520/D5401-03R22.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
7. Reagents and Materials
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
7.1 Purity of Water—Unless otherwise clearly indicated,
theASTM website.
references to water shall be understood to mean reagent water
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
www.astm.org. as defined by Type IV of Specification D1193.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5401 − 03 (2022)
7.2 Wood—Wood used for these tests shall be randomly exposure in accordance with Practice D1006, then test as
selectedstandardcommercial“two-by-fours,”straight-grained, described in Section 10 to determine the water repellent
knot-free, flat-sawn, kiln-dried, Ponderosa pine sapwood, se- efficiency of the treatment after exposure with respect to
lected in accordance with Specification D358. untreated wood.
NOTE 1—Species other than Ponderosa pine may be used by mutual
11. Calculations
agreement.
11.1 Calculation the water repellent efficiency, (WRE) in
8. Test Specimens percent, for each specimen as follows:
8.1 Cut away and discard 3 in. (76 mm) of end grain from WRE 5 100 @~A 2 B! 2 ~C 2 D!#/~A 2 B! (1)
the selected “two-by-four” to avoid any pretreatment that may
where:
have been applied by the supplier and to ensure an even cut on
A = weight of the untreated specimen after water contact, g,
every specimen.
B = weight of the untreated specimen before water contact,
8.2 Using the fine-toothed saw (see 6.3) to ensure a smooth
g,
surface, cut a supply of 12 in. (305 mm) long test specimens
C = weight of the treated spec
...




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