Accelerated Testing For Frost Resistance

Established Testing

We have been developing and operating accelerated freeze/thaw tests for over 40 years. These have been accepted as industry standards, for clay based products, and have proved to be equally useful for testing other materials, and assessing their performance in severe freeze/thaw conditions.

The current test for masonry walling, roof tiles and pavers are UKAS accredited, and have been validated against natural conditions.
The tests are accepted by the BSI, and form the basis for the European Standards for frost resistance of masonry units, pavers and roofing tiles made from clay, concrete, natural stone or reconstituted stone.

Severe Exposure

The essential feature of the masonry unit tests is that they are "uni-directional". The freezing and thawing cycles attack only one side or face of the samples, which, together with the high level of saturation and rapid rate of freezing, simulates as far as possible conditions in the most severe environments likely to be encountered in the British Isles. Consequently, if any failure occurs during a test, it is of the same type as that seen in real situations.
The test method for natural stone and clay/concrete roofing tiles is "omni-directional", resulting in freezing action on all surfaces of the samples being tested.

Site Consultancy

When frost related problems do occur on site we have the experience and back up to investigate and provide authoritative reports and opinions. Should a dispute result in court action we are able to offer an expert witness service to provide an impartial, independent expert opinion.