What is BS EN 14066 - Thermal shock on natural stones about?
BS EN 14066 is a European Standard that covers natural stone testing methods used for both internal and external surfaces of constructions. The main aim of the BS EN 14066 series is to offer manufacturers best industry practices for demonstrating the effectiveness of natural stones for structures, not only for enhancing aesthetics but also for thermal insulation and protection against extreme weather conditions.
BS EN 14066 specifies a method to assess possible changes of natural stones under the effect of sudden changes in temperature (thermal shock).
Who is BS EN 14066 - Thermal shock on natural stones for?
BS EN 14066 on natural stone products is useful for:
- Contractors
- Civil engineers
- Builders and architects
- Interior designers
- Stone specialists
Why should you use BS EN 14066 - Thermal shock on natural stones?
In certain applications, thermal shock property of natural stone is an important factor to consider when selecting products and materials for your construction needs. Poor resistance to thermal shock involves increased vulnerability to rapid temperature changes, which causes fracturing in the rock material and thus can pose a threat to the stability of the structures.
In this regard, BS EN 14066 provides the best industry recommendations on product characteristics and includes procedures for testing natural stones.
Thus, BS EN 14066 provides indications on the effect of heat in a fire and high temperatures on natural stones as they are widely used in buildings.
Overall, BS EN 14066 walks you through the thermal shock test that provides indication of possible aesthetic changes due to the mineral oxidation and modifications in mechanical strength of the material due to weathering action and cyclic variations in temperature and humidity.
As a result, complying with BS EN 14066 can help demonstrate the performance and durability of natural stone, thus determining whether or not they are fit for purpose in a specific environment.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN 14066:2013 supersedes EN 14066:2003. BS EN 14066:2013 includes some technical changes with respect to EN 14066:2003. These include:
- The new standard requires the evaluation of the produced decay through both non-destructive and destructive methods
- Specimens' dimensions have been modified
- The normative references have been updated
