What we test, and to which standard
Field testing of newly installed fenestration and glazing systems for air and water leakage — plus diagnostic work when something is already failing.
Air infiltration testing
A sealed chamber is fitted to the specimen and air is supplied or exhausted to hold a specified static pressure difference. We record extraneous leakage, then the net airflow through the unit, and compare it against the allowable rate per square foot.
Water penetration testing
A calibrated spray rack applies water at the required rate while uniform (Procedure A) or cyclic (Procedure B) pressure is held across the specimen. The interior is observed for leakage throughout the test period.
Windows & doors
AAMA 502 field testing of newly installed operable windows and doors — the full installed product including the adjacent wall interface, common on multi-family and commercial work.
Storefronts & curtain walls
AAMA 503 field testing of newly installed storefronts, curtain walls, and sloped glazing — the commercial counterpart, with project-specific pressures and locations.
Diagnostic water check
Hose-directed quality-assurance and diagnostic leakage checks of installed storefronts, curtain walls, and sloped glazing — useful for isolating a known leak path.
Forensic evaluation
When water is already getting in, we evaluate the fenestration interface to trace the source and document findings to support remediation decisions.
How testing usually gets specified
- A sampling of units is selected from the project rather than every opening.
- The architect, owner, or construction manager specifies the quantity, locations, and test pressures.
- On large projects, testing is commonly performed at 5%, 50%, and 90% completion to catch issues early.
- Field test pressures are typically reduced from the original laboratory pressure to reflect field conditions.
- The contract designates the party responsible for the cost of testing.
Common questions about field testing
- What is the difference between field testing and laboratory testing?
Laboratory testing rates a product sample under controlled conditions. Field testing measures the same product after it has been installed in the actual building, which captures installation and interface defects that a lab rating cannot. - Which standards does FTS test to?
The common field standards are ASTM E783 for air infiltration and ASTM E1105 for water penetration, applied through AAMA 502 for windows and doors and AAMA 503 for storefronts and curtain walls. AAMA 501.2 is used for diagnostic water checks. - When should testing happen during construction?
On larger projects it is common to test at roughly 5%, 50%, and 90% completion, so installation problems are found early while they are still inexpensive to correct. - Do you test every window on the project?
No. A representative sample is selected, with the quantity and locations set by the architect, owner, or construction manager. - What areas does FTS serve?
FTS performs on-site testing across the Greater Boston area and throughout New Hampshire and Maine.
Not sure which standard your spec calls for?
Send us the relevant section of the project specification and we will tell you exactly what testing applies.
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