The AAMA 501.2 Field Quality Control Check is a useful tool to assess the success of a curtain wall installation. The measure of success is simple; no water penetration through the curtain wall or around the curtain wall where it joins surrounding construction.
CAUTION: Never use a nozzle designed for use for an AAMA 501.2 to field check an operable window system.
If an AAMA 501.2 is called for in a project specification, read carefully and understand “engage a Qualified Third Party Testing Agency” means that a party other than the contractor or glazing installer is required to meet the specification’s intent. By engaging a third party, independent testing will accurately evaluate the work and provide useful information to the project team.
AAMA 501.2
How To Conduct an AAMA 501.2
- Procure the required nozzle to meet the AAMA guidelines, a Monarch B-25 type brass nozzle.
- Identify the test area within the curtain wall and measure the perimeter and all horizontal and vertical intermediate frames. The total length of which will equal the time required to correctly administer the procedure.
- Secure safe access to the test area by way of lift or scaffold as required. The nozzle will be placed 18″ from the test surface, so plan accordingly when setting up.
- Confirm that water pressure capable of delivering 30 psi at the nozzle is available at the test area.
- Begin spraying the test area along the bottom horizontal frame member at a rate of one foot per minute and continue spraying the vertical and horizontal intermediate framing while working your way up the curtain wall. Maintain a distance of 18″ from the nozzle tip to the test subject while remaining at 90 degrees to the curtain wall.
- It is helpful to have an observer stationed on the interior of the curtain wall to observe the test area for any sign of leakage.
An AAMA 501.2 is not a “test” of a curtain wall. A test such as the ASTM E 1105 should be used to act as a validation test for successful installation.
If you have additional questions regarding the AAMA 501.2 or would like to discuss costs associated with having the field quality control check provided by a Qualified Third Party Testing Agency; give us a call – 866-584-6868
