Services/Testing · New and existing buildings

Window and storefront water testing

Lab ratings tell you how a window performs in a test chamber. Field testing tells you how it performs installed in your wall, with the flashing, sealant and WRB around it. We test the first units early, so a systemic installation error is fixed once, not on every floor.

Request a proposal Email us
  • AAMA 501.2
  • AAMA 502
  • AAMA 503
  • ASTM E1105
  • ASTM E2128
Spray rack and gauge set to test pressure on a masonry wall
Spray rack and gauge set to test pressure on a masonry wall
When to call us

Where this helps most

  • The first windows are in

    Test the first installed units before the rest of the building repeats the same detail.

  • The spec calls for field testing

    AAMA 502 and 503 testing of new installations, run and documented by an independent party.

  • A window or storefront leaks

    Calibrated testing tells you whether water gets in through the frame, the perimeter joint or the flashing.

  • You need sign-off you can defend

    Objective data for envelope acceptance, warranty questions or a dispute.

How it works

From first call to final report

  1. Review

    We review the window submittals, installation details and the spec so we test against the right criteria and pressure.

  2. Pick the openings

    With the team, we choose representative openings, the first installed units and anything that looks suspect.

  3. Test

    Chamber testing to AAMA 502 / 503 and ASTM E1105 with RainMaker equipment, or nozzle testing to AAMA 501.2 with Monarch nozzles.

  4. Find and retest

    If water gets in, we trace the path, show the installer, and retest the opening after it's fixed.

What you get

Clear findings you can act on

  • A test report with pass / fail for each opening, pressures, durations and photos
  • The leak path for any failure: frame, perimeter joint, flashing or the wall around it
  • Retest results once the repair is made
  • Every report and photo in your project's client portal
Calibrated nozzle and gauge before a water test
Calibrated nozzle and gauge before a water test
Hose test with a pressure gauge at the wall base
Hose test with a pressure gauge at the wall base
Questions

Common questions

What's the difference between AAMA 502, 503 and 501.2?

AAMA 502 is the field test for newly installed windows and doors, and AAMA 503 is the same idea for storefronts, curtain walls and sloped glazing. Both use a chamber and air pressure, following ASTM E1105. AAMA 501.2 is a nozzle (hose) test used on storefronts and curtain walls, both for quality checks and to track down leaks.

When should testing happen?

As soon as the first windows and their flashing are installed, and before interior finishes cover the inside. Early testing catches a repeat installation problem while it's still cheap to fix.

Do you test existing buildings too?

Yes. On an existing building, testing is usually part of a leak investigation: we recreate the leak under controlled conditions to prove where the water gets in.

What do you need from the site team?

Access to both sides of the openings, water within reach of the test area, and the window submittals and details ahead of time.

Project highlight
Window test failure caught before drywall
Read the case study
Related services
Existing buildings

Forensic water intrusion investigation

Forensic leak investigations that find the real source with water testing, infrared and test cuts, then give the owner and contractor a clear repair path.New construction

Construction QA site visits

Construction-phase QA site visits for the building envelope.New construction

Building envelope design review

Third-party review of architectural drawings for waterproofing and envelope detailing.
All services
Start a project

Field-tested answers. Defensible reports.

Tell us about the building and we'll reply within one business day with next steps and a proposal.

Request a proposal Or email [email protected]