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.
Overview
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.
Audience
Contents
Structure
IS 3140 - Scope Summary & Key Points
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Painting Condition | Asbestos sheets must be thoroughly dry |
| Paint Type | Compatible with primer applied |
| Reference Codes | IS 1303-1958 (Definitions), BIS Painting Code |
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.
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):
| Term | Definition/Specification |
|---|---|
| Back Painting | Paint applied on back/edges to prevent moisture |
| Dry Sheets | Mandatory condition before painting |
| Painting System | Compatible with primer; follow relevant code |
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.
IS 3140 — Necessary Information & Specifications for Painting Asbestos Cement Products
Back Painting (Clause 2.2):
Paint the back and edges of sheets to prevent moisture ingress.
Painting Conditions (Clause 7.1):
Information to be Furnished (Clause 3.1):
Provide details on:
Surface Preparation (Clause 5.3.1):
| Information Required | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Location of asbestos cement usage | Determines exposure and paint type |
| Corrosive atmosphere exposure | Specifies protective requirements |
| Weathering condition | Affects surface preparation |
| Painting purpose | Guides paint system selection |
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: Characteristics of Substrata and Treatment for Asbestos Cement Painting
Substrate Situations (Clause 3.1):
Surface Suction (Clause 5.2):
Back Painting (Clause 2.2):
Fungus Treatment (Clause 4.3):
| Step | Action | Reference Clause |
|---|---|---|
| Identify substrate use | Roof, cladding, pipes, exposure level | 3.1 |
| Surface suction check | Pretreatment if suction high/variable | 5.2 |
| Back painting | Paint backs & edges to prevent moisture ingress | 2.2 |
| Fungus removal | Scrape, rub, wash, dry, fungicidal wash x2 | 4.3 |
| Dust removal | Brush surface after 24 hours | 4.3 |
flowchart TD
A[Identify Substrate & Exposure] --> B{Surface Suction?}
B -- High/Variable --> C[Pretreatment]
B -- Low --> D[Back Painting]
C --> D
IS 3140: Preparation of Surface for Painting - Key Points
Cleaning:
Fungus Treatment (Clause 4.3):
High or Variable Suction Surfaces (Clause 5.2):
Dust Removal:
| Step | Action | Reference Clause |
|---|---|---|
| Surface cleaning | Sandpaper rubbing, brushing off dust | 5.1 |
| Fungus removal | Scrape, sandpaper, wash, fungicidal | 4.3 |
| Pretreatment for suction | Apply primer/sealer | 5.2 |
| Dust removal post-wash | Soft bristle brushing after 24 hrs | 5.1 |
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)]
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:
Application Notes (Clause 6.1):
Repainting Old Surfaces (Clause 5.3.5):
If old paint is sound, apply 1-2 coats of finishing paint only.
| Aspect | Specification |
|---|---|
| Back Painting Required | When impervious paint is on face |
| Paint Type | Alkali-resistant primer, bitumen, waterproofer |
| Coats | Minimum 1 coat |
| Application Sequence | Preferably after face painting |
| Precautions | Avoid contamination of face with back paint materials |
This ensures durability and moisture protection of painted sheets per IS 3140.
IS 3140 - Painting of Asbestos Sheets: Key Points & Specifications
| Coat Type | Number of Coats | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Primer | 1 | Adhesion & protection |
| Undercoat | 1-2 | Build thickness |
| Finishing Coat | 1-2 | Aesthetic & durability |
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.
IS 3140 Key Points on Selection of Paints
Clause 4.4 & 4.1.2:
Clause 7.1:
Additional Notes:
| Surface Type | Primer Type | Finish Coats | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alkali-prone | Alkali-resistant primer | Compatible top coats | Impervious primer mandatory |
| Calcareous | As per Part II Painting Schedules | As per schedule | Refer specific code of practice |
| Asbestos sheets | Compatible primer | Compatible paint | Sheet must be dry |
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
IS 3140: Fungicidal Treatment Key Points
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Surface Cleaning | Scrape, rub with glass wool, sandpaper | Remove all fungus and dust |
| 2. Washing | Wash with clean water | Allow to dry completely |
| 3. Fungicidal Wash | Apply 1st coat, dry | Follow with 2nd coat, dry |
| 4. Painting | Paint over fungicidal wash | Use specified paints |
| 5. Back Painting | Apply paint on back and edges | Prevent moisture entry |
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
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):
Paint System (Clause 4.1.2 & 4.4.3):
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Weathering Duration | Several months exposure before painting |
| Surface Preparation | Clean powdery/dusty surface after weathering |
| Primer | Minimum 2 coats, alkali-resistant, impervious barrier |
| Paint Type | Alkali-resistant paint per IS 2395 (Part II) |
| External Sheeting | Porous 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.
IS 3140 - Painting Previously Painted Surfaces: Key Points
| Step | Action | Reference Clause |
|---|---|---|
| Defective paint removal | Remove flaking, bleaching, saponified | 5.3.1 |
| Surface cleaning | Scrape, sandpaper, wash, dry | 5.3.1 |
| Roughening glossy surfaces | Sand to roughen | 5.3.1 |
| Paint system selection | Follow IS 2395 (Part II) | 5.3.1 |
| Number of coats | 1-2 coats if old paint is sound | 5.3.5 |
| Asbestos sheets painting | Dry sheets, compatible paint system | 7.1 |
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
IS 3140 Key Specifications for Waterproofing Gutters and Downpipes
Waterproof Coating Inside Gutters & Pipes (Clause 4.4.4):
Back Painting (Clauses 2.2 & 6.1):
| Surface | Coating Type | Timing | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inside gutter/pipe | Bitumen waterproof coating | Before erection | Water impermeability |
| Outer surface | Alkali-resistant porous paint | After waterproofing | Breathability & protection |
| Back & edges | Alkali-resistant primer/bitumen/waterproofer | Before or after face paint | Moisture 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.
IS 3140: Precautions & Limitations Summary
| Step | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Drying | Sheets must be completely dry |
| Back Painting | Paint back & edges with specified paint |
| Primer Compatibility | Paint system must suit primer |
| Moisture Protection | Prevent moisture ingress from back |
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.
Primary Reference:
Painting Practice:
Other Relevant IS Codes:
Contact for Standards & Publications:
| Aspect | Reference Standard/Document |
|---|---|
| Definitions | IS 1303-1958 |
| Painting Schedules | BIS Code of Practice for Painting (Part II) |
| Product Coverage | IS 3140-1965 (Asbestos cement sheets) |
| BIS Offices | Multiple regional and branch offices (see IS 3140 Clause 7.1) |
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.
IS 3140 primarily addresses Right to Information (RTI) and Copyright in the context of public safety standards dissemination.
Right to Information (RTI):
Copyright Protection:
If you need structural design formulas or tables, please specify the relevant IS code (e.g., IS 456 for concrete design).
Frequently Asked
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:
Summary Table:
| Surface Area | Paint Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Outer surface | Alkali-resistant porous paint | Allows breathing, reduces blistering |
| Inner gutters/pipes | Waterproof bitumen coating | Applied before erection |
| Back side (if damp) | Alkali-resistant primer / bitumen | Prevents moisture ingress |
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Key IS References:
This system ensures durability despite alkalinity, porosity, and moisture challenges inherent in asbestos cement.
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.
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This ensures durable, effective paint finish on asbestos cement products.
Purpose of Back Painting (IS 3140):
Method of Back Painting:
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| When to Back Paint | When impervious paint is used on the front face |
| Coating Material | Alkali-resistant primer, bitumen paint, waterproofer |
| Application Sequence | Preferably after face painting, else before fixing |
| Precautions | Avoid contamination of face paint with back paint |
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This ensures moisture protection and paint longevity per IS 3140.
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):
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.
According to IS 3140, Clause 4.1.3, the following chemicals must be avoided when treating asbestos cement before painting:
Reasons:
Best practices:
This ensures durable paint adhesion without damaging the asbestos cement substrate.
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