Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Wind and Rain Are In The Forecast

Recon Independent Assessments brings the weather, you supply the well constructed building envelope and quality driven team.

2010 is already shaping up to be another year of growth for Recon as the word spreads regarding the affordability and value our third party field testing is known for.

When you're looking for a third party testing agency, don't hesitate to call on Recon for a proposal.

Fax: 321-206-4567 your specs to us or email them: info@gorecon.net

We'll call you to discuss the project and our proposal.

Recon has never met a Curtain Wall, Window, Skylight, or Storefront it didn't like...

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Merry Christmas To All

Recon Independent Assessments would like to wish all of it's clients a very Merry Christmas. All of the work over the past year has taken us around this great country and allowed us to meet many of the fine people that make America the greatest country in the World.

We look forward to time with family and friends over the next few days.

Enjoy!

Friday, December 18, 2009

Moisture Mapping Survey with Sliding Glass Door and Window Installation Validation




Recon Independent Assessments had the pleasure of joining the team conducting an exterior re-cladding project along the beach in Virginia Beach. A couple of long days were required to overcome the obstacles presented by working in an environment where occupants were present.
ASTM E-783 and ASTM E-1105 testing was conducted throughout the 15 story condominium. Four types of fenestration were encountered.





A comprehensive survey was conducted throughout many of the individual units in the structure to assist in understanding potential sources of water intrusion from a recent nor'easter that affected the area with high winds and rain.
Recon Independent Assessments is available for your project.
Call us or email: info@reconwindowtesting.com




Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Moisture Intrusion Survey & Window / Sliding Glass Door Testing Underway







Recon Independent Assessments has deployed to Virginia Beach to provide services.






Recon's proposal, references, and flexibility in scheduling on short notice makes it an easy choice for architects and owners.






Saturday, December 5, 2009

The Spec Book Says: Qualified Field Testing Agency

You are in the right place!

Did it say save on testing cost by using Recon Independent Assessments? You will.

Recon Independent Assessments has developed a very effective approach to field testing windows, curtain walls, and storefronts that allows for efficiency to increase the value you get when testing. Long gone are the long hours spent building elaborate and clumsy vaccum chambers for an ASTM E 1105.

Day rate is the standard pricing unit in field testing. Make sure to get a clear understanding of the number of openings that can or will be tested per day.

Recon Independent Assessments will allow you to test more. Contact us today to learn how.

info@reconwindowtesting.com to request a free consultation to discuss your project testing needs.

Engineer review of testing reports available upon request.

Friday, December 4, 2009

The AAMA 501.2 Field Quality Control Check

Commonly refered to as the "nozzle" or "hose" test, the AAMA 501.2 is not an actual validation test at all.

The AAMA 501.2 is a great tool to check progress on a project and to prepare for a third party field test, but the procedure does not validate the opening or system as having been successfully installed.

AAMA 501.2  Field Quality Control Check
 Available by Day Rate:  
 (includes on-site testing services and written report)  
Call today to schedule: 407-948-4983

A brief outline of how to perform the AAMA 501.2 can be found by clicking here: How To Perform A Field Quality Control Check





 
The ASTM E 1105 is the test procedure that uses differential pressure to validate the opening.

As previously discussed here, the E 1105 is the test procedure used even when following AAMA 502 & 503 test standards.

Knowing the proper test methods for validating installation is important. Using them effectively at benchmarks in the construction life cycle is paramount.

If you have questions regarding the proper method or procedure for any of them, contact Recon. We'll be happy to spend the time with you on the phone to help you better understand the differences and uses of each.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Water Intrusion Testing For Windows

Recon Independent Assessments is fully capable of providing field testing for windows, storefronts, curtain walls, sliding glass doors, and skylights anywhere in the nation.

Our consultants are ready to pack up the necessary tools, instruments and their expertise and meet you on the job site to administer ASTM E 1105, AAMA 502 & AAMA 503 testing protocols.

Send us your project requirements and we'll gladly prepare an estimate of cost based on the specifications and call you to discuss the details.

We'll likely be looking at airfare before we hang up with you.

Recon Provides ASTM Window Testing At A Resonable Cost

The cost of not testing can mean your reputation.

The effects of wind driven rain on a building are multifaceted.

The kinetic energy contained within the rain drops along with the differential pressure caused by the wind can lead to water travelling upwards on glass surfaces. Combine those effects with absorption and capillary action and it is easy to understand why wind driven rain causes moisture intrusion at openings where vertical rain events do not.

The ASTM E 1105 field test is the best tool available for simulating wind driven rain conditions.

Most Division 8 Specifications now call for Field Testing to sample randomly selected opening for water penetration resistance.

Recon Independent Assessments can provide field testing services on your project. Contact us today for a proposal of cost to perform services.

Recon Independent Assessments works nationwide, just let us know where we're needed. We'll be there.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Professional Field Testing of Installed Windows Using ASTM or AAMA Protocols



Recon Independent Assessments has travelled the country over the past year providing field testing using ASTM E 1105, ASTM E 783, AAMA 502, AAMA 503, & AAMA 501.2 testing methods to help ensure project succcess for owners, contractors and installers.


Recon is looking forward to seeing familiar faces in 2010 as well as new ones.


Monday, November 30, 2009

Condo Window & Sliding Glass Door Retrofit Evaluations

The end of the Atlantic Hurricane Season is here and for the most part, the dry season is upon us in Florida. Many common interest ownership associations will be evaluating their buildings to plan for any capital projects in the upcoming year like retrofitting or replacing existing windows and sliding glass doors.

Often, problematic water intrusion issues will be incorrectly attributed to window systems rather than issues related to flashing failures or interface deficiencies.

Recon Independent Assessments can provide water intrusion investigations for a reasonable cost to help determine the proper course of action to resolve leaks. Knowing the right course can save tens of thousands of dollars if not hundreds, so invest in having professionals conduct a forensic testing and evaluation of the envelope prior to jumping into a full retrofit project.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Identify Window Installation Issues Early In The Project Using AAMA & ASTM Field Test Methods

Recon Independent Assessments provides field testing for water penetration on Windows, Curtain Wall, Skylights, Sliding Glass Doors, & Windows.

Field testing is important and is being included in Project Specifications more often.

If you are bidding a project or are currently involved in a project that Requires Field Quality Control, trust Recon Independent Assessments with providing testing on your project.

Recon is able to deploy to any job site in the United States.

Email or Fax today to request a free consultation to discuss your testing needs.

info@reconwindowtesting.com or 321-206-4567

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Recon Helps To Understand Window Testing In Project Specifications

Recon Independent Assessments has seen the scenario play out several times. A project is progressing along and WHAM-O, the Quality Control section of a Division 8 specification JUMPS out and grabs a Project Manager or Owner's attention.

Meetings are called. A third party like Recon is brought in and the money needed for testing becomes a who pays issue.

Don't let yourself be surprised or disappointed on the next one. Recon Independent Assessments will review the RFP you are bidding and give guidance on what your line item should be to fulfill the specification as it's written.

Recon Independent Assessments will provide the review and consultation free of charge, every time.

Recon is dedicated to providing quality, reasonable, and consistent third party testing of installed windows, storefronts, curtain walls, and sliding glass doors. Let us help you deliver quality.

Include "Review Spec for Bidding" in the email subject line and attach a copy of the spec and we'll get you numbers and discuss the details with you. Really.

info@reconwindowtesting.com

Ida Tested Installed Windows for Water Penetration in Norfolk & Virginia Beach

Many building owners learned the importance of having a watertight building envelope first hand earlier this month along the eastern seaboard courtesy of Tropical Storm Ida.

Recon Independent Assessments discussed the potential for water intrusion along the coast being elevated during the Atlantic Hurricane Season in an earlier posting just prior to the season starting.

Now, the calls have started to come in for full moisture intrusion investigations, mitigation plans, and subrogation potential on many projects.

Test during construction to better avoid water intrusion around installed windows, doors, and curtain walls.

Quality control and field testing are all too important to the successful completion of the building envelope and can ultimately demonstrate your commitment to delivering a quality structure. Contact Recon today to ensure you are following acceptable testing protocols.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Recon Completes Water Penetration Testing In Bolivar Tennessee












Recon Independent Assessments completed an initial round of testing on a healthcare project being built for the State of Tennessee.




Friday, November 13, 2009

The Recon Independent Assessments Road Show

Recon is headed west, again. This time Recon Consultants will be in west Tennessee working to ensure that the installed fenestration assemblies ( EFCO 8101) are watertight where they interface the surrounding components of the building envelope.

The project is a state health facility.

Testing protocols will be performed in accordance with the requirements of AAMA 502 / ASTM E-1105.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Recon Independent Assessments Goes Back To College

Recon Independent Assessments is onsite at The University of Florida providing real time consulting and support to ensure that window installations result in a watertight perimeter seal between the window system and surrounding substrates.


The screen capture above shows Z flashing being installed at Recon's direction.

Watch live to see Hough Hall being built.

Making The Owners Rep Happy One Window / Opening At A Time







Recon Independent Assessments enjoys the positive aspects of providing field testing on a project.






Our best moments are when we get to document the well done work of a skilled craftsman.






When the entire construction team shares in a unified vision of quality, field testing is a part of the journey.






Recon Independent Assessments looks forward to documenting the next project's successes.






Contact us today for a consultation and written proposal:






Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Moisture Intrusion Prevention Survey & Consulting






Recon Independent Assessments wrapped up a project recently where in addition to Field Testing Windows, moisture intrusion prevention consultingwas provided. Many of the deficiencies that were observed were easily correctable and helped to ensure that a watertight building envelope was delivered.

Contact Recon today if you believe a fresh set of eyes and an independent trird party report will strengthen the quality of the building you deliver. Recon's ability to provide you with resonably priced solutions will make your decision easy.

info@GoRecon.net

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Transportation Facility Field Testing of Installed Windows

Recon Independent Assessments helps to deliver another quality project .






Recon Independent Assessments provided comprehensive testing and evaluation of all installed window systems in a new transportation facility in Volusia County Florida. The testing was undertaken throughout the entire project and provided great oversight of the process and drove quality.
The result of the integrated testing program was an extremely happy Public Sector client/owner.


It's always more beneficial to identify problems while the project is ongoing rather than responding to water intrusion issues after a new building is occupied.




Monday, November 9, 2009

Recon Independent Assessments Provides ASTM Field Testing Of School Windows

ASTM Field Testing provided by Recon is one of the best investments made on a project.

The cost of testing versus the potential for liability if a building is delivered with an imperfect envelope is huge.

Recon ensures that testing doesn't break the bank, testing is beneficial to all stakeholders, and testing helps to meet the project specifications' goal.

Whether your specifications call for AAMA or ASTM testing proceedures, Recon is willing to provide your project the testing it deserves at a price that will keep the folks in the cubicles happy.




Recon travels to your site anywhere nationwide.

Our calendar is getting crowded; call or email today to ensure you are getting Recon's consultants and pricing before they're unavailable due to demand.






Need a proposal for testing on an upcoming project?

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Recon Provides Water Penetration Testing For Healthcare Project







Denver, Colorado:
Bovis is asked by the owner to have an independent third party provide testing on the newly installed windows of a retrofit / remodel of an existing wing of the hospital.
Bovis contacts Recon and requests a Project Proposal.
Recon is on-site within a matter of three weeks providing the quality third party testing the owner was looking for.
Contact Recon today for your testing needs. info@reconwindowtesting.com






Thursday, October 22, 2009

Window Field Testing For Water Penetration Scheduled

When Only The Best Will Do:

Recon Independent Assessments is the answer.




Recon Independent Assessments will hit the road again in the coming weeks with projects requiring field testing of windows, storefronts, and curtain walls for air infiltration and water penetration.
One of the projects will also require sealant adhesion testing (a great idea).
Recon Independent Assessments was the clear choice when compared with the proposals others submitted.
The secret is getting out; testing doesn't always require an armored car to deliver payment!

Monday, October 19, 2009

The Question Most Often Asked When Water Penetration Field Testing Installed Windows

How much wind (fast) does that field test simulate?



Suprisingly little when you think about it. If a failure is observed in field testing, it's usually well below the design pressure classification of the installed product.

Think about it, well below.

Field testing is a great tool to ensure your skilled tradesmen are paying attention to detail and remain focused on the project goal of delivering a watertight envelope.

Test early & often; make sure when the wind does blow, your reputation for quality construction is tied down nicely.

info@reconwindowtesting.com for any questions you might have regarding specifications on your project.
Water Testing

Recon Independent Assessments, LLC (Recon) is a consulting firm that specializes in providing third party water infiltration field testing. We perform these services on windows, curtain walls, and storefront systems for water penetration during the construction phase or can complete forensic water penetration of installed windows, doors, and wall systems. Recon testing professionals use only the highest quality testing equipment available in order to complete testing in accordance with either the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) or American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) testing protocols. We provide these services all across the nation. Our knowledgeable staff is ready to take on your next project to meet your specific testing needs. When you demand the best consulting for your projects, call Recon Independent Assessments.

A third party independent testing firm (Recon) is generally used to validate that windows, doors, storefronts, and curtain wall assemblies are installed to meet the project specifications (Division 8 Installation Quality Control) and product manufacturers’ installation requirements. Field testing for water penetration will determine the quality of work of subcontractors and ensure their accountability and will also ensure that proper specifications were followed during the construction process. Typically these services are for quality assurance or new building commissioning. On new buildings, we perform baseline water testing to determine if fenestrations (windows/doors/penetrations) are properly flashed and sealed to prevent water infiltrations.

info@reconwindowtesting.com for more information or to request a proposal.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

The Rainy Season Requires An ASTM E-1105

It's been refreshing to have all of the recent consulting work going on providing quality third party testing of installed windows, doors, curtain wall, and storefronts. The draw back has been having the time to keep everyone up to date on all of the work we've been completing.

Look for additional updates coming very soon with greater detail.

It's Recon Independent Assessment's goal to keep you informed. For now, take a look around at previous posts to get a feel for our project experience and team.

See you on the job site!

info@reconwindowtesting.com for price quotes on your project requirements. Dont forget to include a contact number if we have specific questions on your project.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Moisture Intrusion Analysis Survey and Consulting


Recon Independent Assessments provides evaluations of high performance commercial buildings to help detect the source of moisture intrusion as well as identify areas of concern to allow for strategic planning with respect to upcoming maintenance schedules.
Recon Independent Assessments can inspect and fully document the conditions that exist on your apartment building, office high rise, hospital, school or church as they relate to maintaining a watertight building envelope.
If you've been challenged when attempting to locate sources of moisture intrusion that are leading to indoor environmental concerns, contact Recon today to discuss how our consulting services will serve you best.
Recon Independent Assessments is available to consult anywhere in the United States or Worldwide. Principal consultants are able to deploy rapidly on short notice.

Sealant testing and evaluation can help when budgeting for maintenance.



A thorough examination of the building envelope will allow you to discover areas of concern.




Failing sealant is a leading contributor to water intrusion related envelope issues.





info@GoRecon.net to give Recon Independent Assessments a reason to visit and hang out for a while!

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Moisture Mapping and Monitoring

Recon Independent Assessments provides consulting and inspection services related to moisture management.

A recent project required multiple visits to provide documentation of moisture content within several different types of materials within the building.

The monitoring and consultation on the project facilitated a better understanding of the project's progress for the owner.

Reon Independent Assessments enjoys providing positive solutions, contact us today if you have moisture management concerns.
















info@reconwindowtesting.com to request a sample report or proposal for services

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Field Testing Installed Windows Curtainwall and Storefront Systems For Water Penetration on LEED Projects

Recon Independent Assessments has the experience testing installed fenestration on LEED projects like this:

NAS Jacksonville <========= click to view

We are available to help your Team deliver a sustainable structure, contact us today to discuss your LEED Project testing needs.

info@reconwindowtesting.com

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Mock-up Testing

Recon Independent Assessments will be testing a mock-up in Central Florida for the School District that is constructing a new facility.

Kudos to the School System for recognizing the importance of setting the expectation of excellence on the Project.

By testing the installation scope in a mock-up wall, the entire project will get a head start on quality. Additional testing will be performed throughout the project to ensure that the critical interface between the installed fenestration and the building envelope is watertight.

Recon Independent Assessments is proud to be part of the team that was chosen to deliver another quality school for the District.

Friday, August 7, 2009

End Your Search For Third Party Testing

Request a Proposal for Curtain Wall and Window Testing from Recon Independent Assessments.

AAMA and ASTM Field Testing for Water Intrusion and Air Infiltration though Installed Windows, Doors, Storefronts and Curtain Wall.

The interface between installed products is the nexis of most water intrusion events in commercial buildings. Make certain your project is afforded the best third party testing availalbe to ensure your reputation for quality is well documented.

Request a sample report and proposal via email: info@reconwindowtesting.com

ASTM E 1105 and ASTM E 783 Field Test Methods deliver quality results. Insist on testing. Test early in the project to promote accountability.

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Baltimore Independent Third Party ASTM Field Testing of Installed Curtainwall



ASTM E 1105 Field Test of Installed Curtain Wall for Water Penetration






ASTM E 783 Field Testing of Installed Curtainwall for Air Infiltration












Recon Independent Assessments will provide third party consulting on projects anywhere. Contact us for a proposal of cost. Please remain seated when opening our proposal, the good news may make you weak in your knees.