ICC-ES AC243

Full Name

ICC-ES AC243 – Acceptance Criteria for Composite Foundation Drainage Systems

Scope

ICC-ES AC243 establishes the acceptance criteria for evaluating composite foundation drainage systems used as alternatives to conventional sand- or gravel-covered pipe drains installed around building foundations. These systems are designed to manage water around foundations, preventing moisture-related issues.

The scope of AC243 covers:

  • Material requirements: it specifies acceptable materials for the components of composite foundation drainage systems, such as the drainage core, filter fabric, and any protective or stabilization layers.
  • Performance requirements: it defines the minimum performance requirements for the drainage system, including flow capacity, compressive strength, and resistance to clogging and deterioration.
  • Testing procedures: it outlines standardized test methods to evaluate the performance of the drainage system under various conditions, such as simulating water flow and soil pressure.
  • Installation guidelines: it provides instructions for proper installation of the composite foundation drainage system, including trench preparation, backfill requirements, and connection details.

By adhering to AC243, manufacturers can demonstrate that their composite foundation drainage systems meet the necessary performance standards for effective water management around building foundations. This helps ensure the durability and longevity of foundations by preventing water-related damage.

Resources

Keywords

composite foundation drainage systems; acceptance criteria; drainage core; filter fabric; protective layer; stabilization layer; flow capacity; compressive strength; resistance to clogging; resistance to deterioration