IS 31401965AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Code of practice for painting asbestos cement building products

IS 3140:1965 provides a comprehensive code of practice for painting asbestos cement building products, including roofing sheets, cladding, gutters, and downpipes. It addresses surface preparation, paint selection, application methods, and protective treatments to ensure durability and aesthetic quality. This standard is essential for engineers, contractors, and maintenance professionals involved in the finishing and upkeep of asbestos cement materials in building construction.

15Sections
78Clauses Indexed
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1965Edition
Building Construction Practices including Painting Varnishing and Allied FinishingCategory
Alternative search terms: IS 3140 PDF, IS 3140 pdf free download, IS 3140 free download pdf, IS3140 PDF, IS-3140 PDF, IS 3140 1965 PDF, IS 3140:1965 PDF, IS 3140-1965 PDF, IS 3140 (1965) PDF, IS 3140 1965 edition PDF, IS 3140 edition 1965 PDF

What This Standard Covers

IS 3140:1965 provides a comprehensive code of practice for painting asbestos cement building products, including roofing sheets, cladding, gutters, and downpipes. It addresses surface preparation, paint selection, application methods, and protective treatments to ensure durability and aesthetic quality. This standard is essential for engineers, contractors, and maintenance professionals involved in the finishing and upkeep of asbestos cement materials in building construction.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Civil Engineers
  • Construction Contractors
  • Building Maintenance Professionals
  • Paint Specifiers and Consultants
  • Architects
  • Quality Control Inspectors
  • Facility Managers

Key Topics Covered

Surface alkalinity and its effects on paint adhesion
Selection of alkali-resistant and porous paints
Surface preparation techniques including cleaning and sanding
Fungicidal treatment for fungus growth removal
Back painting to prevent moisture ingress
Handling previously painted surfaces
Weathering effects on asbestos cement surfaces
Painting schedules and primer application
Treatment of glazed and porous surface patches
Waterproofing gutters and downpipes
Avoidance of chemical treatments that damage asbestos cement
Drying requirements before painting

Table of Contents

1Scope

IS 3140 - Scope Summary & Key Points

  • Scope: Covers specifications for asbestos cement sheets, including definitions (per IS 1303-1958) and painting requirements.
  • Definitions: Refer IS 1303-1958 for terms related to asbestos cement sheets.
  • Back Painting: Coating the back and edges with paint to prevent moisture ingress.
  • Painting (Clause 7.1):
    • Sheets must be dry before painting.
    • Use paint compatible with primer.
    • Follow painting schedules as per BIS guidelines (Code of Practice for Painting).
  • Contact Information: Regional and branch offices of BIS for further standards and clarifications.

Important Notes:

ParameterDetails
Painting ConditionAsbestos sheets must be thoroughly dry
Paint TypeCompatible with primer applied
Reference CodesIS 1303-1958 (Definitions), BIS Painting Code

Diagram: Painting Process Flow

flowchart TD
    A[Asbestos Cement Sheet] --> B{Is sheet dry?}
    B -- No --> C[Dry sheet thoroughly]
    B -- Yes --> D[Apply primer]
    D --> E[Apply compatible paint]
    E --> F[Back painting on edges & back]
    F --> G[Finished sheet ready for use]

For detailed painting schedules and specifications, consult the BIS Code of Practice for Painting and IS 3140 full text.

2Definitions

IS 3140 - Definitions Summary

  • Reference Standards: Definitions primarily follow IS 1303-1958.

  • Back Painting (Clause 2.2):
    Coating the back and edges of asbestos sheets with paint to prevent moisture ingress.

  • Painting Specifications (Clause 7.1):

    • Sheets must be thoroughly dry before painting.
    • Use any painting system compatible with the applied primer.
    • Follow the "Code of Practice for Painting" (published separately).

Key Points:

TermDefinition/Specification
Back PaintingPaint applied on back/edges to prevent moisture
Dry SheetsMandatory condition before painting
Painting SystemCompatible with primer; follow relevant code

Additional Notes:

  • For detailed painting schedules and primer compatibility, refer to the BIS "Code of Practice for Painting" and IS 1303.

  • Contact BIS regional offices for standards and clarifications.


flowchart LR
    A[Asbestos Sheet] --> B{Dry?}
    B -- No --> C[Dry Sheet]
    C --> B
    B -- Yes --> D[Apply Primer]
    D --> E[Apply Paint (Compatible)]
    E --> F[Back Painting (Back & Edges)]
    F --> G[Finished Sheet]

This flow ensures moisture protection and durability as per IS 3140.

3Necessary Information for Painting

IS 3140 — Necessary Information & Specifications for Painting Asbestos Cement Products

Key Points from IS 3140:

  • Back Painting (Clause 2.2):
    Paint the back and edges of sheets to prevent moisture ingress.

  • Painting Conditions (Clause 7.1):

    • Sheets must be thoroughly dry before painting.
    • Use paint systems compatible with the primer.
    • Refer to IS 2395 (Part II) for paint system recommendations on old surfaces.
  • Information to be Furnished (Clause 3.1):
    Provide details on:

    • Location of use (roof, side-cladding, interior).
    • Exposure to corrosive atmosphere.
    • Weathering extent of asbestos cement.
    • Purpose of painting (aesthetic, protective, or both).
  • Surface Preparation (Clause 5.3.1):

    • Remove flaking, bleached, or saponified paint.
    • Clean by scraping, sanding, washing, and drying.
    • Roughen glossy surfaces for better adhesion.

Summary Table: Necessary Information for Painting

Information RequiredPurpose
Location of asbestos cement usageDetermines exposure and paint type
Corrosive atmosphere exposureSpecifies protective requirements
Weathering conditionAffects surface preparation
Painting purposeGuides paint system selection

Additional Notes:

  • Use compatible primers and paints as per IS 2395 (Part II).
  • Back painting is crucial for moisture protection.
  • Proper surface prep ensures durability and adhesion.

flowchart TD
    A[Start: Paint Planning] --> B[Gather Info: Location, Exposure, Weathering, Purpose]
    B --> C[Surface Preparation: Remove loose paint, clean, dry]
    C --> D[Select Paint System: Compatible with primer & exposure]
    D --> E[Back Paint Sheets & Edges]
    E --> F[Apply Finish Coats]
    F --> G[Inspection & Maintenance]

References:

  • IS 3140: Painting of Asbestos Cement Products
  • IS 2395 (Part II): Code of Practice for Painting (Calcareous Surfaces)
4Characteristics of the Substrata and Treatment

IS 3140: Characteristics of Substrata and Treatment for Asbestos Cement Painting

Key Points from IS 3140:

  • Substrate Situations (Clause 3.1):

    • Identify location: roof, side-cladding, internal, pipes, gutters (interior/exterior).
    • Assess exposure to corrosive atmosphere.
    • Note weathering extent of asbestos cement.
    • Define painting purpose: aesthetic, protective, or both.
  • Surface Suction (Clause 5.2):

    • For high/variable suction surfaces, apply pretreatment (see Clause 4.2).
    • Pretreatment ensures uniform paint absorption.
  • Back Painting (Clause 2.2):

    • Paint backs and edges to prevent moisture ingress.
  • Fungus Treatment (Clause 4.3):

    • Remove fungus by scraping, rubbing with glass wool/sandpaper.
    • Wash with clean water, dry thoroughly.
    • Apply two coats of fungicidal wash; do not wash off before painting.
    • Brush surface after 24 hours to remove dust.

Additional Notes:

  • Use fungicidal washes as per IS 2395 (Part I).
  • Paint specifications: ready-mixed, lead-free, acid/alkali/water/heat resistant.
  • Follow published Code of Practice for Painting Calcareous Surfaces for detailed schedules.

Summary Table: Surface Treatment Steps

StepActionReference Clause
Identify substrate useRoof, cladding, pipes, exposure level3.1
Surface suction checkPretreatment if suction high/variable5.2
Back paintingPaint backs & edges to prevent moisture ingress2.2
Fungus removalScrape, rub, wash, dry, fungicidal wash x24.3
Dust removalBrush surface after 24 hours4.3

flowchart TD
    A[Identify Substrate & Exposure] --> B{Surface Suction?}
    B -- High/Variable --> C[Pretreatment]
    B -- Low --> D[Back Painting]
    C --> D
   
5Preparation of Surface

IS 3140: Preparation of Surface for Painting - Key Points

Surface Preparation (Clauses 5.1, 5.2, 4.3)

  • Cleaning:

    • Rub surface with sandpaper; roughen glazed areas.
    • Brush off loose powdery material.
    • Avoid wire brushes to prevent iron stains.
  • Fungus Treatment (Clause 4.3):

    1. Scrape and rub with glass wool + sandpaper.
    2. Wash with clean water; dry thoroughly.
    3. Apply 2 coats of fungicidal wash; allow to dry between coats.
    4. Paint directly over fungicidal wash without washing it off.
  • High or Variable Suction Surfaces (Clause 5.2):

    • Use pretreatment as per Clause 4.2 (usually a primer or sealer to regulate suction).
  • Dust Removal:

    • After washing, brush with soft bristle brush after 24 hours to remove dust.

Additional Notes

  • For previously painted surfaces, follow detailed preparation steps (Clauses 5.3.1 to 5.3.4).
  • Use ready mixed paints as per IS specifications (e.g., IS 361 for light stone color).

Summary Table

StepActionReference Clause
Surface cleaningSandpaper rubbing, brushing off dust5.1
Fungus removalScrape, sandpaper, wash, fungicidal4.3
Pretreatment for suctionApply primer/sealer5.2
Dust removal post-washSoft bristle brushing after 24 hrs5.1

flowchart TD
    A[Surface] --> B[Clean with Sandpaper]
    B --> C{Fungus Present?}
    C -- Yes --> D[Scrape & Sandpaper]
    D --> E[Wash & Dry]
    E --> F[Apply Fungicidal Wash (2 coats)]
    F --> G[Paint over Fungicidal Wash]
    C -- No --> H{High Suction?}
    H -- Yes --> I[Pretreatment (Primer/Sealer)]
   
6Back Painting

IS 3140 - Back Painting: Key Points & Specifications

  • Purpose (Clause 2.2):
    Back painting prevents moisture ingress by coating the back and edges of sheets.

  • When to Back Paint (Clauses 4.4.1.2 & 6.1):
    Mandatory if an impervious paint system is used on the face.

  • Materials for Back Painting (Clause 6.1):
    Use at least one coat of:

    • Alkali-resistant primer
    • Bitumen paint
    • Colourless waterproofer
  • Application Notes (Clause 6.1):

    • Avoid contamination of the face with bitumen or waterproofer to prevent discoloration or drying issues.
    • Preferably, back painting is done after face painting; if not possible, do it before fixing sheets.
  • Repainting Old Surfaces (Clause 5.3.5):
    If old paint is sound, apply 1-2 coats of finishing paint only.


Summary Table:

AspectSpecification
Back Painting RequiredWhen impervious paint is on face
Paint TypeAlkali-resistant primer, bitumen, waterproofer
CoatsMinimum 1 coat
Application SequencePreferably after face painting
PrecautionsAvoid contamination of face with back paint materials

This ensures durability and moisture protection of painted sheets per IS 3140.

7Painting

IS 3140 - Painting of Asbestos Sheets: Key Points & Specifications

1. Surface Preparation & Dryness

  • Sheets must be thoroughly dry before painting (Clause 7.1).
  • If old paint film is sound, apply 1-2 coats of finishing paint after surface prep (Clause 5.3.5).

2. Back Painting

  • Back painting (Clause 2.2): Coat back and edges to prevent moisture ingress.

3. Paint Selection

  • Use paints compatible with the primer applied (Clause 4.4).
  • Follow painting schedules as per BIS "Code of Practice for Painting" (now published).

4. Painting System

  • Any system compatible with primer and finish requirements may be adopted (Clause 7.1).

Typical Painting Schedule (Example for Calcareous Surfaces from BIS Part II)

Coat TypeNumber of CoatsPurpose
Primer1Adhesion & protection
Undercoat1-2Build thickness
Finishing Coat1-2Aesthetic & durability

Contact for BIS Painting Code & Support

  • Regional & Branch offices listed in Clause 7.1 for detailed schedules and standards.

flowchart TD
    A[Dry Asbestos Sheet] --> B[Apply Primer]
    B --> C{Old Paint Sound?}
    C -- Yes --> D[Apply 1-2 Finishing Coats]
    C -- No --> E[Apply Undercoat + Finishing Coats]
    E --> F[Back Paint Edges & Back]
    D --> F

Summary: Ensure dry sheets, use compatible paints, back paint edges, and follow BIS painting schedules for durability and moisture protection.

8Selection of Paints

IS 3140 Key Points on Selection of Paints

  • Clause 4.4 & 4.1.2:

    • Paint selection must consider alkali resistance.
    • Use alkali-resistant paints or apply at least two coats of alkali-resistant primer to protect non-resistant paints.
    • Primer must form an impervious barrier to alkali.
    • Refer IS 2395 (Part II) for detailed paint system selection.
  • Clause 7.1:

    • Asbestos sheets must be thoroughly dry before painting.
    • Paint systems must be compatible with the primer used.
    • Back painting (Clause 2.2) is recommended to prevent moisture ingress.
  • Additional Notes:

    • For calcareous surfaces, consult the "Code of Practice for Calcareous Surfaces: Part II Painting Schedules" (published).
    • Glossary and detailed painting schedules available from BIS offices.

Paint System Selection Summary (per IS 3140 & IS 2395)

Surface TypePrimer TypeFinish CoatsNotes
Alkali-proneAlkali-resistant primerCompatible top coatsImpervious primer mandatory
CalcareousAs per Part II Painting SchedulesAs per scheduleRefer specific code of practice
Asbestos sheetsCompatible primerCompatible paintSheet must be dry

Contact for Paint Codes & Schedules

BIS Regional Offices (e.g., Western - Mumbai: 6 32 92 95) provide detailed schedules and codes for paints.

flowchart TD
    A[Start: Surface Type] --> B{Is surface alkali-prone?}
    B -- Yes --> C[Apply alkali-resistant primer (2 coats)]
    B -- No --> D[Select primer as per surface type]
    C --> E[Apply compatible finish coats]
    D --> E
    E --> F{Is surface calcareous?}
    F -- Yes --> G[Refer Calcareous Painting Schedule (IS Code)]
    F -- No --> H[Finish painting]

Summary: Ensure dryness, use alkali-resistant primers for alkali surfaces, follow IS 239

9Fungicidal Treatment

IS 3140: Fungicidal Treatment Key Points

Fungicidal Treatment Procedure (Clause 4.3)

  • Surface Preparation:
    • Scrape and rub down with glass wool and sandpaper.
    • Wash thoroughly with clean water; allow drying.
  • Application:
    • Apply first coat of fungicidal wash; allow it to dry.
    • Apply a second coat; let it dry thoroughly.
  • Painting:
    • Paint over fungicidal wash without washing it off.
    • Use specified paints (e.g., Indian Standard Colour No. 361, light stone, or bituminous black lead-free paint).

Important Specifications

  • No burning or blow lamp drying (Clause 5.3.2) to avoid cracking.
  • Back Painting (Clause 2.2) to prevent moisture ingress.
  • Dry Sheets (Clause 7.1) mandatory before painting.

Summary Table: Fungicidal Treatment Steps

StepActionNotes
1. Surface CleaningScrape, rub with glass wool, sandpaperRemove all fungus and dust
2. WashingWash with clean waterAllow to dry completely
3. Fungicidal WashApply 1st coat, dryFollow with 2nd coat, dry
4. PaintingPaint over fungicidal washUse specified paints
5. Back PaintingApply paint on back and edgesPrevent moisture entry

Reference Standards

  • IS 2395 (Part I) for fungicidal wash specifications.
  • Painting schedules under preparation (now published) for calcareous surfaces.

flowchart TD
    A[Surface with Fungus] --> B[Scrape & Rub Down]
    B --> C[Wash with Clean Water]
    C --> D[Dry Surface]
    D --> E[Apply Fungicidal Wash - 1st Coat]
    E --> F[Dry]
    F --> G[Apply Fungicidal Wash - 2nd Coat]
    G --> H[Dry Thoroughly]
    H --> I[Paint Over Fungicidal Wash]
    I --> J[Back Paint Edges & Back]

For detailed paint types and procurement

10Weathering and Alkali Attack Considerations

IS 3140: Weathering & Alkali Attack Key Points

  • Alkali Attack Risk: New asbestos cement sheets are alkaline (due to Portland cement), which can degrade oil paints.

  • Weathering (Clause 4.1.1):

    • Allow sheets to weather for several months.
    • Alkalis carbonate on air exposure and are partly washed off by rain.
    • Weathering reduces alkali but may cause powdery surfaces, needing cleaning before painting.
  • Paint System (Clause 4.1.2 & 4.4.3):

    • Use alkali-resistant paints or at least two coats of alkali-resistant primer forming an impervious barrier.
    • For external sheeting, paints can be:
      • (a) Porous alkali-resistant
      • (b) Impervious alkali-resistant with back painting
    • Refer IS 2395 (Part II) for detailed paint schedules.

Summary Table: Alkali Attack Prevention

StepDescription
Weathering DurationSeveral months exposure before painting
Surface PreparationClean powdery/dusty surface after weathering
PrimerMinimum 2 coats, alkali-resistant, impervious barrier
Paint TypeAlkali-resistant paint per IS 2395 (Part II)
External SheetingPorous or impervious alkali-resistant paint + back painting

flowchart LR
    A[New Asbestos Cement Sheet] --> B[Weathering for Months]
    B --> C[Alkalis Carbonate & Wash Off]
    C --> D[Surface Cleaning]
    D --> E[Apply Alkali-Resistant Primer (2 coats)]
    E --> F[Apply Alkali-Resistant Paint (per IS 2395)]
    F --> G[Durable Finish with Alkali Protection]

Note: Proper weathering and paint selection are crucial to prevent alkali attack and ensure long-term durability.

11Painting Previously Painted Surfaces

IS 3140 - Painting Previously Painted Surfaces: Key Points

Surface Preparation (Clauses 5.3.1 to 5.3.5)

  • Remove defective paint: Flaking, bleaching, or saponified paint must be removed.
  • Cleaning: Scrape, sandpaper, wash, and dry thoroughly.
  • Roughening: Glossy old surfaces must be roughened for adhesion.
  • Paint compatibility: Follow IS 2395 (Part II) for selecting paint systems compatible with existing finishes.
  • Coats: If old paint is sound, apply 1-2 coats of finishing paint.

Back Painting (Clause 7.1)

  • Asbestos sheets must be dry before painting.
  • Use paint systems compatible with the primer.

Summary Table for Previously Painted Surfaces

StepActionReference Clause
Defective paint removalRemove flaking, bleaching, saponified5.3.1
Surface cleaningScrape, sandpaper, wash, dry5.3.1
Roughening glossy surfacesSand to roughen5.3.1
Paint system selectionFollow IS 2395 (Part II)5.3.1
Number of coats1-2 coats if old paint is sound5.3.5
Asbestos sheets paintingDry sheets, compatible paint system7.1

Additional Notes

  • Drying: Ensure complete drying after cleaning.
  • Adhesion: Roughening improves paint bond.
  • Compatibility: Essential to avoid peeling or blistering.

flowchart TD
    A[Previously Painted Surface] --> B{Defective Paint?}
    B -- Yes --> C[Remove defective paint]
    B -- No --> D[Check paint soundness]
    C --> E[Clean & Dry Surface]
    D --> E
    E --> F{Glossy Surface?}
    F -- Yes --> G[Roughen Surface]
    F -- No --> H[Proceed]
    G --> H
    H --> I[Select Paint System (IS 2395 Part II)]
    I --> J{Old Paint Sound?}
    J -- Yes
12Waterproofing Gutters and Downpipes

IS 3140 Key Specifications for Waterproofing Gutters and Downpipes

  • Waterproof Coating Inside Gutters & Pipes (Clause 4.4.4):

    • Apply a bitumen waterproof coating on the inside (water-carrying surface) of asbestos cement gutters and downpipes before erection.
    • Outer surface: Use alkali-resistant porous paint to allow breathing, reducing blistering/flaking.
  • Back Painting (Clauses 2.2 & 6.1):

    • Protect back and edges of sheets with at least one coat of:
      • Alkali-resistant primer, or
      • Bitumen paint, or
      • Colourless waterproofer.
    • Avoid contamination of the face with bitumen or waterproofer to prevent discoloration or paint drying issues.
    • Back painting is preferably done after face painting, but often before fixing.

Summary Table for Painting Sequence

SurfaceCoating TypeTimingPurpose
Inside gutter/pipeBitumen waterproof coatingBefore erectionWater impermeability
Outer surfaceAlkali-resistant porous paintAfter waterproofingBreathability & protection
Back & edgesAlkali-resistant primer/bitumen/waterprooferBefore or after face paintMoisture protection

flowchart TD
    A[Asbestos Cement Gutters/Downpipes] --> B[Inside Surface]
    A --> C[Outer Surface]
    A --> D[Back & Edges]

    B --> E[Bitumen Waterproof Coating (Before erection)]
    C --> F[Alkali-resistant Porous Paint (After waterproofing)]
    D --> G[Alkali-resistant Primer/Bitumen/Waterproofer (Before/After face painting)]

Note: Ensure careful application to avoid contamination between coatings for durability and aesthetic quality.

13Precautions and Limitations

IS 3140: Precautions & Limitations Summary

1. Back Painting (Clause 2.2)

  • Paint the back and edges of asbestos sheets to prevent moisture ingress.
  • Use specified paint compatible with sheet material.

2. Painting Requirements (Clause 7.1)

  • Sheets must be thoroughly dry before painting.
  • Use painting systems compatible with the primer.
  • Refer to the Code of Practice for Painting for detailed schedules (now published).

3. General Precautions

  • Avoid moisture entry to maintain durability.
  • Use compatible primers and paints.
  • Ensure proper drying to prevent paint failure.

Quick Reference Table: Painting Precautions

StepRequirement
DryingSheets must be completely dry
Back PaintingPaint back & edges with specified paint
Primer CompatibilityPaint system must suit primer
Moisture ProtectionPrevent moisture ingress from back

Additional Notes:

  • Follow definitions as per IS 1303-1958.
  • For detailed painting schedules, consult the BIS Code of Practice for Painting (Calcareous Surfaces, Part II).
  • Contact regional BIS offices for standards and clarifications.
flowchart TD
    A[Asbestos Sheet] --> B[Dry Sheet Completely]
    B --> C[Back & Edge Painting]
    C --> D[Apply Compatible Primer]
    D --> E[Finish Painting]
    E --> F[Moisture Protection Ensured]

This ensures longevity and performance of asbestos sheets per IS 3140.

14References to Other Standards

IS 3140 References to Other Standards – Key Points

  • Primary Reference:

    • IS 1303-1958 for definitions related to asbestos cement products.
  • Painting Practice:

    • Clause 7.1 specifies painting on thoroughly dry asbestos sheets.
    • Compatible painting systems with primers as per the finish requirements.
    • Reference to the Code of Practice for Painting (Part II: Painting Schedules) by BIS (published after IS 3140).
  • Other Relevant IS Codes:

    • IS 1303 for asbestos cement products definitions.
    • BIS Code of Practice for Painting (for detailed painting schedules and materials).
  • Contact for Standards & Publications:

    • BIS Regional and Branch offices across India (e.g., Bombay, Calcutta, Chandigarh, Madras).
    • Sales offices and inspection points listed for acquiring standards and clarifications.

Summary Table: Key References

AspectReference Standard/Document
DefinitionsIS 1303-1958
Painting SchedulesBIS Code of Practice for Painting (Part II)
Product CoverageIS 3140-1965 (Asbestos cement sheets)
BIS OfficesMultiple regional and branch offices (see IS 3140 Clause 7.1)

Additional Notes for Engineers:

  • Always ensure asbestos sheets are dry before painting.
  • Use primers compatible with the selected paint system.
  • Check the latest BIS painting code for updated schedules and materials.
  • Consult IS 1303 for material properties and terminology.
flowchart LR
    A[IS 3140 - Asbestos Cement Products] --> B[IS 1303 - Definitions]
    A --> C[BIS Code of Practice for Painting]
    C --> D[Painting Schedules & Materials]
    B --> E[Material Properties]
    A --> F[BIS Offices for Standards & Support]

This structure ensures compliance and quality in finishing asbestos cement products.

15Right to Information and Copyright

IS 3140 primarily addresses Right to Information (RTI) and Copyright in the context of public safety standards dissemination.

Key Points:

  • Right to Information (RTI):

    • Ensures public access to information held by public authorities.
    • Promotes transparency and accountability in government and public bodies.
    • The standard is made publicly available to aid education, knowledge, and disadvantaged communities.
  • Copyright Protection:

    • The publication is protected by copyright.
    • Unauthorized reproduction or distribution is prohibited.
    • Use is allowed only for personal, educational, or non-commercial purposes with proper acknowledgment.

No structural formulas or tables are specified under these clauses, as IS 3140 focuses on legal and informational guidelines rather than engineering design.


If you need structural design formulas or tables, please specify the relevant IS code (e.g., IS 456 for concrete design).

Popular Questions About IS 3140

?What types of paints are recommended for asbestos cement surfaces?

Recommended Paint Types for Asbestos Cement Surfaces (IS 3140)

  • Alkali-Resistant Porous Paint:
    For outer surfaces, use alkali-resistant porous paints. These allow the asbestos cement to "breathe," minimizing blistering and flaking caused by trapped moisture and alkalinity.

  • Waterproof Bitumen Coating:
    For internal (water-carrying) surfaces of gutters and pipes, apply a waterproof bitumen coating before erection to prevent water damage.

  • Primers for Back Painting:
    When moisture ingress from behind is possible, apply an alkali-resistant primer conforming to IS:109-1950 or bitumen paint per IS:158-1950 or a colorless waterproofer on the back side before fixing sheets.

  • Surface Preparation:

    • Ensure sheets are thoroughly dry (7-10 days exposure).
    • Roughen glazed patches for better key.
    • Apply minimum two coats of primer to counter variable suction and alkalinity.

Summary Table:

Surface AreaPaint TypeNotes
Outer surfaceAlkali-resistant porous paintAllows breathing, reduces blistering
Inner gutters/pipesWaterproof bitumen coatingApplied before erection
Back side (if damp)Alkali-resistant primer / bitumenPrevents moisture ingress
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Key IS References:

  • IS 3140 Clause 4.4.4, 4.1, 1.2
  • IS 109-1950 (alkali-resistant primer)
  • IS 158-1950 (bitumen paint)

This system ensures durability despite alkalinity, porosity, and moisture challenges inherent in asbestos cement.

?How should surfaces be prepared before painting asbestos cement products?

Surface Preparation for Painting Asbestos Cement (IS 3140)

  • Drying: Ensure sheets are thoroughly dry before painting. Leave both sides exposed to air for 7-10 days to eliminate moisture.

  • Back Painting: If moisture ingress from the back is possible, apply an alkali-resistant primer (IS:109-1950), bitumen paint (IS:158-1950), or colorless waterproofer on the back before fixing.

  • Surface Roughening: Roughen glazed patches to improve paint adhesion.

  • Priming: Apply minimum two coats of primer over the entire surface to counter high and variable suction, preventing uneven paint absorption.

  • Avoid Chemicals: Do not use hydrochloric acid or zinc sulphate for cleaning or neutralizing alkalies; they cause brittleness and powdery deposits that reduce paint adhesion.

  • For Gutters/Pipes: Inside surfaces require a bitumen waterproof coating before erection; outer surfaces get an alkali-resistant porous paint to allow breathability.

Loading diagram...

This ensures durable, effective paint finish on asbestos cement products.

?What is the purpose and method of back painting in this standard?

Purpose of Back Painting (IS 3140):

  • To prevent moisture ingress from the back side of sheets when an impervious paint system is applied on the front face.
  • Protects the sheet edges and back from alkali and moisture damage, enhancing durability.

Method of Back Painting:

  • Apply at least one coat of alkali-resistant primer, bitumen paint, or colorless waterproofer on the back and edges.
  • Avoid contamination of the front face with bitumen or waterproofer to prevent discoloration or drying issues.
  • Ideally, back painting is done after the front face painting; however, it may be done before fixing the sheets if necessary.
  • Ensure the old paint film is sound; then apply one or two coats of finishing paint.

Summary Table

StepDetails
When to Back PaintWhen impervious paint is used on the front face
Coating MaterialAlkali-resistant primer, bitumen paint, waterproofer
Application SequencePreferably after face painting, else before fixing
PrecautionsAvoid contamination of face paint with back paint
Loading diagram...

This ensures moisture protection and paint longevity per IS 3140.

?How does the standard address fungus growth on asbestos cement surfaces?

IS 3140 on Fungus Growth on Asbestos Cement Surfaces:

  • No burning or blow lamps: Clause 5.3.2 prohibits burning old paint or drying sheets with blow lamps due to risk of explosive cracking.

  • No harsh chemicals: Clause 4.1.3 forbids hydrochloric acid or zinc sulphate for cleaning, as they make sheets brittle and leave powdery residues that hinder paint adhesion.

  • Fungus treatment procedure (Clause 4.3):

    1. Thoroughly scrape and rub surface with glass wool and sandpaper.
    2. Wash with clean water; allow to dry.
    3. Apply a coat of fungicidal wash; let it dry.
    4. Apply a second coat; let it dry thoroughly.
    5. Paint directly over fungicidal wash without washing it off.
    6. After 24 hours, brush surface gently to remove dust.
  • Alkalinity caution: Fresh/damp asbestos cement is alkaline and can attack oil paint; follow precautions in 4.1.

This ensures fungus is killed without damaging the asbestos cement or compromising paint adhesion.

?Are there any chemicals that should be avoided when treating asbestos cement before painting?

According to IS 3140, Clause 4.1.3, the following chemicals must be avoided when treating asbestos cement before painting:

  • Hydrochloric acid
  • Zinc sulphate

Reasons:

  • These chemicals can leave a powdery deposit that interferes with paint adhesion.
  • Hydrochloric acid specifically can make asbestos cement sheets brittle.
  • Asbestos cement is alkaline (Clause 4.1), so neutralizing alkalinity with these chemicals is discouraged.

Best practices:

  • Ensure sheets are dry before painting (Clause 1.2).
  • Use alkali-resistant primers (IS:109-1950) or bitumen paint (IS:158-1950) for back painting if moisture ingress is a risk.
  • Roughen glazed patches and apply minimum two coats of primer to manage suction variability.

This ensures durable paint adhesion without damaging the asbestos cement substrate.

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