ASTM Testing
Field-testing is typically performed to satisfy project specifications, but more importantly, it gives the building owner confidence in the installation and holds the general contractor and subcontracts accountable for their quality of work. Testing assemblies for performance is quickly becoming a best practice procedure for construction projects and Blue Quality Services offers a variety of ASTM testing standards to verify installation. When ASTM field tests are specified in the project manual, we typically recommend a sampling strategy appropriate for the number of windows and doors, as well as the overall size of the building.
An ideal sampling strategy involves testing a mock-up assembly early in the project schedule. After a successful mock-up test is completed and ideal installation techniques perfected, assemblies are tested prior to the completion of interior finishes. A third test, at 70% assembly installation, in a different location ensures installation techniques are being consistently administered throughout the project.
ASTM E 783 - Standard Test Method for Field Measurement of Air Leakage Through Installed Exterior Windows and Doors.
This testing standard is specified to determine the air leakage of newly installed windows and doors. It measures air leakage associated with the assembly and not the leakage through the openings and adjacent construction. ASTM E 783 identifies air infiltrations early so they can be controlled or eliminated. Uncontrolled air leakage throughout the building enclosure can lead to moisture and mold problems, increased energy loss, and reduced occupant comfort.
ASTM E 783 requires a custom built chamber, sealing the chamber to the window or door, supplying or exhausting air from the chamber, and measuring the airflow across the testing chamber.
ASTM E 1105 - Standard Test Method for Field Determination of Water Penetration of Installed Exterior Windows, Skylights, Doors, and Curtain Wall by Uniform or Cyclic Static Air Pressure.
This test method is the most common standard when field testing curtain walls, skylights, doors, or windows. It is intended primarily to determine the resistance to water penetration through assemblies, but it may also be used to determine the resistance between assembly joints and the adjacent construction. Water damage through window or door assemblies can not only lead to dangerous mold problems putting building occupants at risk, but can also cause serious and expensive damage to the building’s interior finishes.
The ASTM E1105 test is specifically written for field testing an installed specimen. The testing procedure utilizes a custom built chamber attached to the interior and a calibrated spray rack attached to the exterior. The spray rack simulates rain driven weather events, while the interior chamber simulates wind and negative building pressures.
LABORATORY TESTING
Blue Quality Services provides laboratory-based testing at our accredited laboratory and training center in Houston, Texas. Our laboratory testing services are targeted to support our core field of architectural components inspection and testing, but we’re willing to expand our laboratory testing services to meet your needs.
- ASTM E 283 - Test Method for Determining Rate of Air Leakage Through Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls, and Doors Under Specified Pressure Differences.
- ASTM E 330 - Test Method Water Penetration of Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls and Doors by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference.
- ASTM E 331 - Standard Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Windows, Skylights, Doors, and Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference.
- ASTM E 547 - Standard Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Windows, Skylights, Doors, and Curtain Walls by Cyclic Static Air Pressure Difference.
- ASTM E 987 - Standard Test Methods for Deglazing Force of Fenestration Products.
- ASTM E 2068 - Test Method for Determination of Operating Force of Sliding Windows and Doors.
- ASTM F 588 - Test Methods for Measuring the Forced Entry Resistance of Window Assemblies.
- ASTM F 842 - Test Methods for Measuring the Forced Entry Resistance of Sliding Door Assemblies.