The document discusses the importance of conducting air and water field testing on installed fenestration products to verify proper installation, product performance, and compliance with specifications, as well as to identify sources of problems, with case studies showing issues discovered through testing like improper installation procedures and missing sealants. Field testing is required by building project specifications and standards like AAMA 502 and 503 to qualify the installation and ensure quality.

1. UL and the UL logo are trademarks of UL LLC © 2016
Understanding the Importance
of Air and Water Field Testing
of Installed Fenestration
Products
2016
UL LLC
Building Materials & Suppression

2. Underwriters Laboratories
404108319
Understanding the Importance of Air and Water Field
Testing of Installed Fenestration Products
ul557747
Dan Daugherty
9/22/2016

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_______________________________________
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5. Air and water field testing is conducted on installed fenestration systems to
ensure the quality of installation, the performance of installed products, verify
compliance with architect and industry specifications and for forensics
investigations to identify the source of problems in the field. This course
explores the value and importance of air and water field testing of installed
fenestration systems. Participants will learn and understand why building
project specifications often require field testing after installation of windows
and other fenestration products, the value it provides to the participants, what
the typical project specifications mean, how field testing is conducted, the
information it reveals and the positive impact it provides to the building project.
Course
Description

6. Learning Objectives
Understanding the importance of air and water field testing of
installed fenestration products
Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to:
 Describe the purpose of air and water field testing
 Identify the correct test standards and methods to be used to conduct field
testing for specific information and situations
 Detail how to prepare for air and water field testing to achieve greatest
value, efficiency and success
 Describe the test results that are obtained and how that information can be
used to positively impact a building project
6

7. Agenda for Course
Understanding the importance of air and water field testing of
installed fenestration products
 Purpose of conducting air and water field testing
 Standards and methods used to conduct air and water field testing
 Considerations for field testing readiness
 Exploring case studies to understand the value, importance, and
findings from conducting air and water field testing
7

8. Project Specifications Require Testing
1. Windows, Doors, Curtain Walls, Glazing Specifications
 Specifications to which windows, doors, curtain walls and glazing must comply
when ordered and received from the supplier:
 Air, water and structural performance requirements (IBC and IRC)
 Thermal performance requirements (IECC)
 Windstorm Resistance requirements (FBC, Miami-Dade County, Texas &
ICC-500, and FEMA)
 Acoustical performance requirements (IBC)
2. Exterior Wall System Mock-up Testing Requirements
 Pre-construction testing of a mock-up of the exterior wall system (including
windows, doors, curtain walls and glazing) to evaluate performance of the exterior
wall system prior to beginning construction
3. Air and Water Field Testing Requirements
 Field testing of the windows, doors, curtain walls and glazing after installation to
verify proper installation and air and water tightness.
8
Building project specifications typically contain a “Windows”, “Doors”, “Curtain Walls” or
“Glazing” section that requires testing:
Testing
Required Prior
to Purchasing
Testing
Required Prior
to Construction
Testing
Required After
Installation

9. Windows, Doors and Curtain Wall Specifications
Products are required to be tested and certified prior to use:
1. Air infiltration, water penetration and structural performance –
IBC and IRC requires testing to assure resistance to normal
weather conditions
2. Thermal performance – IECC requires testing to assure
resistance to thermal transmission under normal weather
conditions
3. Windstorm (Impact and pressure cycling) Resistance –
 Florida building code, Miami-Dade Building code and other codes require
testing to assure resistance to high velocity hurricane winds and wind-borne
debris.
 ICC-500 requires testing to assure resistance to high velocity winds and wind-
borne debris when used in storm shelters
 FEMA 361 requires testing to assure resistance to high velocity winds and
wind-borne debris when used in safe rooms
9

10. Window Requirements in Job Specifications
10
Standard:
North American Fenestration Standard (NAFS)
AAMA/WDMA/CSA101/I.S.2/A440-(02,05,08 or11)
Testing required:
• Air infiltration - ASTM E283
• Water penetration – ASTM E331
• Structural performance – ASTM E330
• Forced entry – ASTM F588
• Operational force testing – ASTM E2068
• Operational cycling performance
• Many other tests dependent on Class
Typical Label on windows:
Job specifications require windows to be tested and labeled to the NAFS
standard under laboratory conditions as required by the IBC and IRC.

11. Thermal Performance Requirements
Performance Requirements:
•U-Factor
•SHGC – Solar Heat Gain Coefficient
•VT – Visible Transmittance
•Condensation (optional)
Standards:
•NFRC 100
•NFRC 102
•NFRC 500
Testing required:
•Thermal simulation testing
•Thermal Performance testing to validate
simulation results
Typical Label on windows:
11
The IECC requires windows, doors and curtain walls to meet thermal
performance requirements established by the NFRC (National Fenestration
Rating Council)

12. Windstorm Resistance Requirements
Performance Requirements:
 Structural integrity from impact and high velocity
wind pressures
Standards:
 ASTM E330
 ASTM E1886
 ASTM E1996
 TAS 201/202/203 (Miami-Dade)
 FEMA Publication 320 and 361 (safe rooms)
 ICC 500 (storm shelters)
Testing required:
• Large & small missile impact testing
• Cyclic Pressure testing
Typical UL Label :
12
The FBC, Miami-Dade, Texas (TDI), ICC, FEMA and others require windstorm
rated products and assemblies

13. 13
Mock-up Testing Requirements
• Prior to installing glazed aluminum curtain wall system, construct mockups for each form of
construction and finish
• Notify Architect 7 days in advance and obtain Architect's approval of mockups before start of Work.
• Provide materials and related accessories to construct testing mock-up(s) that represent the
identical elements which will be used in the final work.
• Provide personnel to install wall mock-up(s) who will be performing the actual Work.
• Simulate actual construction conditions as accurately as possible in every way.
• Where mock-up specimens are constructed with corner sections (either inward or outward), both
elevations shall be tested simultaneously wherever possible, with all surfaces exposed to air, water
and structural test requirements.
• Provide extra materials as may be required to replace materials which fail during tests
• Pre-Test Meeting: Prior to the start of construction of mock-up assembly meet to review methods
and sequence of the mock-up construction.
• Testing Laboratory: Recognized independent AAMA approved testing agency which is equipped
and experienced in conducting the required tests and approved by the Owner.
• Submit three (3) copies of test report, prepared by the testing agency, for each specified test
showing required performance criteria and test results
Pre-construction Mock-up testing of the exterior wall system (including glazing,
windows and curtain walls) is often required to evaluate air and water resistance
& structural integrity to validate that the design and installation are workable and
materials were properly selected for the application prior to job site construction
Typical Job Specifications

14. 14
Exterior Wall System Mock-Up
Sample
A pre-construction exterior
wall system constructed
too evaluate air and water
resistance, structural,
thermal & seismic
performance

15. 15
Mock-Up Testing Procedures
Mock-up testing sequence typically required:
• Air Infiltration as per ASTM E283
• Water Penetration under Static Pressure as
per ASTM E331
• Dynamic Resistance Test as per AAMA 501.1
• Inter-story Vertical Displacement as per
AAMA 501.7
• Structural Performance as per ASTM E330
• Inter-story Horizontal Displacement as per
AAMA 501.4
• Thermal Cycling as per AAMA 501.5
• Condensation Resistance Testing
• Seismic Displacement Testing
• Anchor Bolt Testing
• Washer Bolt Testing
Exterior wall system mock-ups are evaluated for air and water resistance &
structural integrity to validate design, workmanship & material selection and
workability prior to job site construction

16. 16
Mock-Up Testing Results
Typical issues or challenges identified in Mock-up
samples:
• Incompatibility of materials
• Materials don’t meet the performance requirements
of the project
• Sealants or gaskets missing or needed
• Sealants or gaskets incompatible with substrates
• Lack of installation instructions
• Incomplete installation instructions
• Materials difficult or time consuming to install in
the field
Mock-up testing often identifies a variety of issues or challenges that can be
resolved at the time of testing, thereby saving time and costs on the job site

17. Field Testing Requirements
SECTION 084413 - GLAZED ALUMINUM CURTAIN WALL
Section 3.4
D. Field Testing and Performance Requirements
1. Test Units to Test Procedures and Performance
a. Air Infiltration Test
1) Test unit in accordance with AAMA 502 for field testing. The unit shall be
conducted at a min uniform static test pressure differential of at least 1.57 psf, but at a pressure
differential not to exceed 6.24 psf (300 PA)
2) The maximum allowable rates of air leakage for field testing shall not exceed
1.5 times the project specification rate or .09 cfm/SF whichever is greater.
b. Water Resistance Test
1)Test Unit in accordance with AAMA 502
2) The field water penetration resistance tests shall be conducted at a static
test pressure of 2/3 of the specified project water penetration test pressure.
17
Example
Field testing is required to verify proper installation of windows, doors, curtain
walls and glazing for new installations and to identify the cause of leakage issues
of existing installed fenestration products.
Typical Job Specification

18. Test Standards for Field Testing
18
• AAMA 502 Field Testing
• Required for newly installed products to verify installed performance of
the product and the installation (ASTM E783 & ASTM E1105)
• AAMA 503 Field Testing
• Required for newly installed storefronts, curtain walls and sloped glazing
systems (ASTM E783 & ASTM E1105)
• AAMA 501.2 Nozzle Testing
• Required to evaluate joints, gaskets, and sealant details in the glazing
designed to remain permanently closed and water tight.
• AAMA 511 Forensic Testing
• Required to evaluate wall assemblies with known water control problems
to accurately identify suspect wall construction components and details.
• AAMA XXX (add the standard #)
• Required to evaluate newly installed products to verify installed
performance when exposed to wind driven rain
Job specifications require field testing to many different standards dependent on
the type of fenestration products installed and the intent of testing

19. Field Testing Prevents & Identifies Problems
19
Water Leakage through the window
or wall cavity results in mold, mildew
and air quality concerns
Field testing identifies water and air leakage issues which leads to
mitigation and prevention of future issues
Water Leakage into the wall cavity
results in electrical shorting and fire
concerns
Water damage on the exterior façade
caused by water leakage results in
deterioration of the facade

20. Test Methods for Field Testing
ASTM E1105
“Standard 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” 20
Most of the test standards reference the
following test methods that include the detailed
methodology for testing
ASTM E783
“Standard Test Method for Field
Measurement of Air Leakage Through
Installed Exterior Windows and Doors”

21. 21
Pressures for Field Testing
Prior to testing, the pressures for field testing:
• Determined by the owner, architect, or contractor:
• The default air leakage for field testing:
• 1.5 times the applicable laboratory standard for the product
type and performance class.
• When determining the proper field water test pressure:
• Default field test conditions are not the same as NAFS
requirements for lab testing
• The water test pressure shall not be less than 91 pascals
(1.9 psf)
• Tests shall be conducted at a static test pressure equal to
2/3 of the test and rated laboratory performance per
AAMA/WDMA/CSA101/I.S.2/A440

22. AAMA 502 and AAMA 503 Specifications
• Test 3 of the fenestration product
specimens after the products have been
completely installed for air leakage
resistance and water penetration
resistance.
22
• Air leakage resistance tests shall be
conducted at a uniform static test
pressure of __Pa (__psf).
The maximum allowable rate of air
leakage shall not exceed L/s●m²
(__cfm/ft²)
• Water penetration resistance tests
shall be conducted at a static test
pressure of __Pa (__psf).
No water penetration shall occur as
defined by the standard used.

23. AAMA 502
Test Chamber Arrangement

24. AAMA 503
Test Chamber Arrangement

25. 25
AAMA 501.2-15 – “Quality Assurance and Diagnostic
Water Leakage Field Check of Installed Storefronts,
Curtain Walls and Sloped Glazing Systems”
Scope
This document:
• Provides a quality assurance and diagnostic field water penetration check
method for installed storefronts, curtain walls, and sloped glazing systems.
• Not intended to test the rated or specified water performance representative
of wind driven rain or operable windows.
• Intended to aid in evaluating joints, gaskets, and sealant details in the
glazing which are designated be water tight.
Changes
Updated referenced documents and added Section 3.0 terminology
Background
This spec was developed:
• To aid in Quality Assurance and Diagnostic circumstances.
• Not intended to replace the AAMA 502 or the AAMA 503 field testing
standards.

26. 26
AAMA 501.1 – “Standard Test Method For Water
Penetration of Windows, Curtain Walls And Doors
Using Dynamic Pressure”
Scope
This test method:
• Establishes the equipment procedures
for testing exterior windows, curtain
walls, and doors for water penetration
using dynamic pressure.
Changes coming
Field standard is being developed - to be
published shortly.
Background
This standard was developed:
• To simulate wind driven rains.
• Expanded to include dynamic water
testing for the field.

27. Considerations for Field Testing Readiness
27
Readiness Considerations:
Know:
• Your standards, specifications, and
building codes
• Pressure requirements and
allowable pressures
Verify:
• Sufficient water and electrical
supply available on site
• Scaffolding or lift apparatus
available and placed near
specimens
• If booster pump is needed
• Curtain wall systems have
end caps
• Caulk has been cured and
applied
• Curtain wall systems to be
tested
Weather conditions can affect
testing - rain & ice

28. Considerations for Field Testing Readiness
Time saves money – Discuss
with your team ahead of time
• Keep in contact with your lab
• Ask your testing agent questions
• Reach out to those whom have
experience
• Know what areas are best for testing
28

29. 29
Air and Water Field Testing Case Studies
Why is Field testing conducted?
• Eliminate the potential for building damage caused by air and water
compliance with architect and industry specifications
• Forensics investigations leakage
• Ensure the quality of installation & performance of installed products
• Verify to identify the source of problems in the field

30. Air and Water Field Testing Case Studies
1. Italian window system for commercial high-rise, New
York City
Testing: AAMA 101
Issues:
• Lack of coordination between architect, consultant, window system supplier,
window broker, and window manufacturer.
• Lack of detailed installation instructions
• Window system installed out of square resulting in primary seal not performing
its function
30

31. Air and Water Field Testing Case Studies
2. Scott Air Force Base, Scott AFB, IL
Testing: AAMA 501.1 wind driven rain testing modified for field conditions
Issues: Glass thickness not installed to specification resulting in water leakage
31

32. Air and Water Field Testing Case Studies
3. Elementary School
Issue: Installation procedures were not followed resulting in excessive air and water
leakage problems around the unit.
Testing: AAMA 503 modified so as not to include perimeter sealant due to the incorrect
installation procedures and only tested the unit without the perimeter sealant.
32

33. Air and Water Field Testing Case Studies
4. Ambulatory Health Care Center, Libertyville, IL
Testing: AAMA 503
Issues: Testing revealed that water barrier sealant was not installed on
sill of curtain wall in accordance with the specifications resulting in
water leakage
33

34. Air and Water Field Testing Case Studies
5. Hospital
Testing: AAMA 503
Issue: Employs a unitized system with an interior primary seal that is
difficult to access and determine if seal is sufficiently installed
34

35. Preserving National Landmarks through Testing
35
These landmarks were Field tested for air and water resistance to
preserve their integrity

36. Knowledge Check
 Why is air and water field testing conducted on buildings today?
 What type of testing do project specifications frequently require
related to windows, curtain walls, and glazing?
 What are the test standards and methods used to conduct field
testing of installed windows and curtain walls?
 What are some of the steps to prepare for air and water field testing
to achieve greatest value, efficiency, and success?
 What test data is obtained when conducting air infiltration testing
and water penetration testing and how is that data used to positively
impact a building project?
36

37. Summary of Objectives
You should now be able to:
• Describe the purpose of air and water field testing
• Identify the correct test standards and methods to be used to
conduct field testing for specific information and situations
• Detail how to prepare for air and water field testing to achieve
greatest value, efficiency and success
• Describe the test results that are obtained and how that information
can be used to positively impact a building project
37

38. Contacts
Dan Daugherty
Daniel.Daugherty@ul.com
224.279.7857
Wayne Breighner
Wayne.Breighner@ul.com
224.803.1823
45
This concludes The American Institute of Architects
Continuing Education Systems Course
UL Website: www.ul.com
Underwriters Laboratories LLC

39. Thank you!