In addition, the standard calls for the wall base to be free of defects, which adversely affect performance or appearance, such as blemishes, spots, lines, indentations, blisters, and delamination. Under ASTM Test Method F137 cove base is tested for flexibility. A sample is placed right-side out over a cylindrical mandrel and then bent around the mandrel. The product passes the test if it shows no visible cracks, breaks or other evidence of weakness. The test is then repeated with the sample faced against the mandrel.
Flexibility is important when wrapping corners.
And more flexibility means less discoloration at corners. Staining of adjacent surfaces induced by wall base. To provide for long-term customer satisfaction, specifiers seek cove base that will not stain adjacent surfaces. The wall base shall contain no ingredient that will cause staining of the finished surfaces adjacent to it, according to standard F 1861. This test involves placing two wall base specimens on the painted surface then covering the wall base specimens with a second metal panel so that the painted surfaces are sandwiched between and touching both metal panels.