Water Intrusion

When it comes to damaging a building nothing is worse than water, it seeps in through leaky windows and around doors that do not seal properly causing thousands of dollars worth of damage. With proper testing you can eliminate almost all of the causes of water intrusion around your windows and doors saving thousands of dollars worth of repairs. Water intrusion occurs when rain or condensation leaks in through gaps in the framework around your windows or doors or when they do not seal properly because of poor fit. Sometimes it is due to poor construction techniques other times it is due to poorly manufactured assemblies. Either way proper testing in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials will tell you if a window or door is going to leak water into your home or other building. ASTM standard E 331-00 is the standard test method for water penetration of exterior windows, skylights, doors and curtain walls by uniform static air pressure difference.

While the title is quite a mouthful the test is not quite so complicated. Water is sprayed at the exterior surface of the assembled door or window while the outer face and exposed edges are exposed to a uniform static air pressure that is higher than that on the inside. If the door or window suffers from water intrusion then it fails the test and must be replaced or redesigned so that it passes. ASTM standard E 547-00 is the standard test method for water penetration of exterior windows, doors, skylights and curtain walls by cyclic air pressure difference. The test is similar to the one with static air pressure however the air is pulsed at the exterior surface while the water is sprayed. Again if there are any signs of water intrusion then the door or window fails the test and must be redesigned or replaced. Both of the above tests can be performed in a laboratory setting with the door or window assembly placed in a holding jig or mock up wall.

The test may not be conclusive depending on how the assembly is installed in its final location. For this an onsite test should be performed to ensure proper sealing and prevention of water intrusion into the building. ASTM E 1105 is the standard test method for field determination of water penetration of installed exterior windows, doors, skylights and curtain walls by uniform or cyclic air pressure difference. This method uses water sprayed continuously at the assembled door or window while a static air pressure is applied. It is useful not only to test the assembly itself but to test the surrounding construction for its resistance to water intrusion. Whether you are designing and constructing a new building, are renovating an existing one or are having problems with water intrusion and need an expert witness to verify that there is a defect in manufacturing or installation QED Lab has the expertise to handle your needs. Their trained staff is knowledgeable in all aspects of ASTM fenestration testing both in the laboratory and in the field. Considered one of the best testing companies in the country let them help you with your next ASTM certification testing.