ISO 8336:2017

Overview - ISO 8336:2017 (Fibre‑cement flat sheets)

ISO 8336:2017 specifies product requirements and standardized test methods for fibre‑cement flat sheets used as finishes or backing in building construction. The standard sets inspection, dimensional and performance criteria to ensure consistent quality for fibre‑cement sheets used as external and internal wall and ceiling finishes and as internal/external backing sheets. It updates and replaces ISO 8336:2009 and was prepared by ISO/TC 77 (Products in fibre reinforced cement).

Scope limits

• Not applicable to sheets for fire protection purposes.
• Does not include design calculations for installation (wind uplift, waterproofing).
• Excludes certain products (e.g., Portland cement boards with fibrous wood particles; calcium silicate boards for thermal/fire protection; sheets reinforced with asbestos or steel fibres; fibre‑cement roofing slates).

Key technical topics and requirements

ISO 8336:2017 combines product specification with reproducible test methods. Key technical topics include:

• Sheet classifications and categories (A, B, C) and associated use cases.
• Composition and manufacture requirements (cement, reinforcement fibres, production methods).
• Dimensions and tolerances (nominal length, width, thickness, flatness).
• Physical performance criteria, including:
  • Modulus of rupture (MOR) - bending strength
  • Apparent density
  • Moisture movement and dimensional stability
  • Water permeability and water vapour transmission
  • Freeze–thaw, heat‑rain, warm water, and soak‑dry durability tests
  • Resistance to mould growth, nail head pull‑through, and saturated shear bond
  • Surface burning characteristics (fire properties section)
• Evaluation of conformity: type testing, initial/further testing, quality control system, consignment inspection and marking.
• Normative annexes (Annexes D–K) define the specific test procedures for MOR, density, moisture movement, permeability, freeze‑thaw, heat‑rain, warm water and soak‑dry tests.

Practical applications and users

ISO 8336:2017 is intended for:

• Manufacturers of fibre‑cement flat sheets (product specification and QC)
• Testing laboratories performing standardized tests and conformity assessment
• Architects, specifiers and builders selecting sheet materials for façades, interior walls and backing applications
• Procurement and quality assurance teams ensuring supplied sheets meet performance criteria
• Regulatory bodies and certification schemes that reference standardized test methods

Although optimized for the specified uses, products conforming to ISO 8336:2017 can be used for other purposes if they comply with relevant national or international application codes.

Related standards and notes

• Prepared by ISO/TC 77; replaces ISO 8336:2009.
• For installation design, wind uplift, waterproofing or fire‑specific performance, consult applicable national building codes and specialized standards.