7.2 Open Exposed Exterior Exposure

Open exposed exterior exposures are areas such as exterior walls where metal connectors and fasteners are exposed to the elements.

If metal connectors and fasteners are exposed to rainwater and usually dry fully between wettings from ocean spray, as can occur in open exposed exterior exposures, the corrosion rates will likely be lower than in partially sheltered exterior exposures. However, if fasteners and connectors in open exposed exterior exposures do not benefit from rainwater washes or remain wet for extended periods, the corrosion rates in these exposures can match the rates in partially sheltered exterior exposures.

Connectors in open exposed exterior exposures can usually be inspected to evaluate their condition, and if access is sufficient to remove the fasteners, connectors can often be replaced if found to be weakened by corrosion.