When issues arise in existing buildings, it is often difficult to determine the origins and the extent of a water leakage issue. Apollo BBC consultants work with our testing and quality assurance division, Blue Quality Services, to perform a wide range of non-destructive diagnostic testing procedures to locate the root and severity of the problem.
Blue Quality Services is a full-service testing laboratory accredited by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA). Accreditation is required to perform the most commonly specified field tests for architectural products.
Diagnostic Testing Services
AAMA 501.2 - Quality Assurance and Diagnostic Water Leakage Field Check of Installed Storefronts, Curtain Walls, and Sloped Glazing Systems
The AAMA 501.2 water test procedure is intended to evaluate the joints, sealant details, and gaskets in the glazing that are designed to remain permanently closed and water tight. This test can be used for mock-up assemblies during construction or as a powerful diagnostic tool to locate areas of active leaks.
AAMA 511 - Voluntary Guideline for Forensic Water Penetration Testing of Fenestration Products
This test is used to perform a forensic investigation of observed leaks and recreates water leaks known to occur during specific weather events.
ASTM C 1715 - Standard Test Method for Evaluation of Water Leakage Performance of Masonry Wall
This standard diagnostic test determines the ability of a masonry wall drainage system to collect water that penetrating exterior brick and effectively direct the water back out to the exterior. This test procedure requires drilling small holes in the exterior brick, inserting multiple plastic tubes inside the holes, and allowing water to flow through the tubes at a consistent rate.
INFRARED THERMOGRAPHY
Apollo BBC consultants typically performs infrared thermography as a non-destructive diagnostic tool to identify possible enclosure weaknesses that the naked eye cannot see.
For existing buildings, our Certified Infrared Thermographers (CIT) can detect missing insulation, thermal breaks in assemblies, failing mechanical connections, inefficient motor operation, and transformer energy loss. Identifying sources of energy loss can save money and address occupant comfort issues.
Moisture Meters
Moisture meters are another non-destructive tool our consultants can use to determine if moisture is trapped in wood or behind a wall cavity. If moisture remains, things like dry rot, pest infestation, mold growth, and general loss of structural integrity can occur. If water damage is suspected within the building enclosure, a visual inspection alone would not provide enough information for our consultants to make informed recommendations and may contribute to more extensive problems down the road.
BEFORE WE TEST
Our technical team follows specific processes for diagnostic testing services, however, we tailor our approach based on the severity of the problem identified and our client’s specific goals. There are certain conditions necessary before we can perform diagnostic testing and ensuring these requirements will help keep costs low and maximize the value of testing.
- Access to the project site and safety training, if required
- Access to water and power if testing
- Lifts for above ground level problem areas
- 7-day notice for diagnostic testing
- Dry weather conditions during testing
To learn more about Blue Quality Services testing services, click here.
CONTACT
For proposal requests or for more information about our experience and services, email us with the button below or give us a call at 800.370.5456.