AAMA / ASTM Window Testing

ASTM Referenced Documents — The Standard describes methods for determining and evaluating water leakage of exterior walls. The purpose of this test is to recreate water leak issues that have occurred, and as a follow-up test after water leakage is found during an AAMA 502 & 503 test. Unfortunately, some testing companies begin a window leak investigation with water testing as the first step that could cause additional water leakage. Weller Infrared Services uses a 7 Step testing method. We do not begin water testing until the 5th step. Give us a call to discuss how we can help you with your window evaluation and testing.

AAMA / ASTM Window Testing

Weller Infrared Services completed the AAMA FenestrationMaster exam. We provide window and door field testing for architects, building consultants, engineers, and owners. We provide window and door field testing for Architects, Building Consultants, Engineers, and Owners. The AAMA / ASTM test methods that we use to test windows and doors are:

• AAMA 501.2: Quality Assurance and Diagnostic Water Leakage Field Check of Installed Storefronts, Curtain Walls, and Sloped Glazing Systems. This is a calibrated hose-nozzle spray test used to check joints, gaskets, sealants, and perimeter details on fixed glazing. It does not use a pressure chamber and is not a substitute for AAMA 502 on operable windows and doors.
• AAMA 502: Voluntary Specification for Field Testing of Newly Installed Fenestration Products
• ASTM E783: "Standard test method for field management of air leakage through installed exterior windows and doors."
• ASTM E1105: "Test method for field determination of water penetration of installed exterior windows, skylights, doors and curtain walls by uniform or cyclic static air pressure difference."
• AAMA 503: Voluntary Specification for field testing of newly installed storefronts, curtain walls, and sloped glazing systems. Usually testing a small area of the curtain wall will keep costs down and provide the results needed.
• AAMA 502 is for operable windows and doors. AAMA 501.2 and AAMA 503 are for fixed storefronts, curtain walls, and sloped glazing.
• We do not test for structural performance

When Should Field Testing Be Performed?

By performing testing as soon as is practical can be beneficial. AAMA 503 defined "newly" installed as before issuance of the occupancy permit not to exceed six months after issuance of the occupancy permit.

• Test windows before finishes are applied around the opening.
• AAMA 511 Forensic Investigation — Voluntary Guideline for Forensic Water Penetration Testing of Fenestration Products
• ASTM E2128: "Standard Guide for Evaluating Water Leakage of Building Walls."

We Have the Training

Field testing of windows, doors, storefronts, and curtain walls takes more than a hose and a pressure gauge. Results depend on choosing the right method — AAMA 501.2, AAMA 502, AAMA 503, ASTM E783, or ASTM E1105 — and knowing how to read what the test actually shows.

Weller Infrared Services completed the AAMA FenestrationMaster exam. We follow the AAMA and ASTM field methods listed on this page. Water testing is not our first step. We use a 7-step evaluation process and do not begin water testing until step 5, so existing leaks are not made worse.

Our work is also supported by building-science and infrared training used during the diagnostic steps that come before a spray test: Level 3 Infrared Thermographer certification from the Infraspection Institute, in accordance with ASNT Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A, plus former Florida building and roofing contractor credentials.

Call Us to Schedule Your AAMA / ASTM Window Testing

Weller Infrared Services is your best choice for window, door, storefront, and curtain wall field testing throughout the Southern United States.

Call us at (888) 461-1115

Credentials

• Level 3 Certified Infrared Thermographer #8339 Infraspection Institute
• Building Science Thermographer #30937 FLIR Systems
• Former Florida Certified Building Contractor
• Former Florida Certified Roofing Contractor
• AAMA FenestrationMaster — exam passed
• Building Performance Institute (BPI) Certified Blower Door and Duct Tester