Why Field Test Installed Windows? They Passed The Lab...

Testing Requirements Ensure Design Goals Are Met

There are many reasons to verify the installed performance of windows, doors and curtainwalls. As the Architect/Specifier, you are responsible for the performance and quality of the exterior façade components. Issues such as workmanship details and warranty concerns all necessitate field testing of your installed fenestration products.

Lab vs. Real World

Most all windows, doors and curtainwalls are tested in a laboratory environment. Industry standards and guidelines such as AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440 and AAMA 501 are typical voluntary specifications to which fenestration manufacturers validate certain performance characteristics. As specifiers of critical performance characteristics, laboratory results and findings are crucial to the initial development and planning of a given structure. As the term would imply, laboratory testing is a controlled environment, which typically provides the " best case scenario " as it relates to the potential performance of a given system.
Manufacturers pay particular attention to detail in the production of laboratory test specimens. The same attention may not always apply to production units, which roll off the production line. An infinite number of variables interact with the production unit, which may have a tremendous impact to the primary performances. Machining tolerances, human interaction and production scheduling/capacities have a direct effect on the quality and performance of a given product.
Field verification/testing can identify certain concerns or deficiencies, which may have originated from the factory that are pertinent to the performance expected by the owner. If field checks are done early in the installation phase, remedial work can often times be performed to correct problems before they have an adverse effect on the building. Typically, it is more cost effective and convenient to remediate before the unit is installed. In the case of large projects, important quality issues can be addressed or handled before the entire shipment reaches the job site.

Verify the Installation

In a manner similar to the actual production of the fenestration, several variables of the installation can have a direct impact on the performance of a product. Manufacturers typically provide a procedure for proper installation of their product. Deviations from this methodology can cause serious problems. The deviations are not always related to the installer's ability to follow approved practices, but rather at times the problem may originate from changing jobsite conditions. In either case, the installation of the actual project-related units is no longer controlled in a manner similar to the laboratory test specimen.

Hedge Your Bets

As with any product or service specified, manufacturers and contractors are called upon to provide a statement of quality and performance warranty . Most specifications have a warranty clause. As a specifier, the warranty can provide two things. First, the warranty and performance requirements can provide a minimum level of quality which can prohibit unwanted manufacturers. If a manufacturer can not provide a product which meets the warranty requirements, you may not want their products on your project. Secondly, warranty clauses usually define stipulations which protect the owner against failures or " less than expected " performance. Failures can include excessive water leakage or air infiltration, condensation, excessive deflections, faulty operation and deterioration in excess of normal weathering. What better way to verify some of these concerns than field testing of your window, door and curtainwall installations?

Field Testing Is Our Expertise, Even Radomes...

When the call came in, our answer was simple: We'll figure it out and get it done.

The challenge: Tackle a 37 year old geodetic dome to determine if the fabric protecting the multi-million dollar instrumentation and antenna array inside was still performing well enough to survive a while longer or would 3/4 of a million dollars need to be found in the budget to recover it?

Recon Independent Assessments met the challenge and the deadline with a written report of findings.

We specialize in finding solutions to testing challenges. Harris Corporation and BRPH got there questions answered without delay and a Program Manager was able to provide answers to his team regarding concerns about a structure that has been around for a while.

Contact Recon Independent Assessments today with your field testing needs. We deliver quality evaluation and testing for less than you might think is possible.

Email: info@gorecon.net

Specification Review

Recon Independent Assessments routinely reviews bid packages for it's next opportunity to earn a place on another construction team to help deliver a quality building to new owners and occupants. The variation that is seen in Division 8 Specifications is staggering. Often the specs are well intentioned, but lack the teeth necessary to ensure the QC they intend to foster.



Recon Independent Assessments will gladly assist you in making certain that your Specifications are written in a way that meets the design goals. Call today to discuss your needs. (Most of the time it's provided free of charge.)



What do your specs call for?










What should they look like? Email us today at info@gorecon.net and we'll send you some great examples based on your needs.

March Forecast

Recon Independent Assessments is looking forward to what appears to be shaping up to be a busy month in March.

Testing will include several locations in south and central Florida. From post secondary school campus projects, a public transit facility, hospital expansions, and medical office space, our on site field testing of installed windows is in demand.

Savvy business owners and project managers recognize that by using Recon Independent Assessments, they are receiving the highest quality testing services available at a great value. Recon's owners are in the trenches leading the way by providing testing at rates that make the "big boys" blush.

Contact us today to get your project proposal. info@gorecon.net

ASTM E-1105 Field Testing by the best for much less. Compare and save.

Sinai Hospital South Tower Vertical Expansion

Recon Independent Assessments was pleased to return to Baltimore last week to assist in Field Quality Control Testing of an installed VistaWall ribbon system. The testing was completed in one day. All parties involved in the project share the same goal, a watertight building envelope.

Recon Independent Assessments looks forward to serving you on your project. Contact us today to get a proposal for on-site Field Testing of Installed Windows, Curtainwall, and Storefront systems. Make sure you're sitting down when you open it, your knees will get weak when you see how affordable Recon Independent Assessments is compared to the "big names" you're accustomed to seeing pass across your desk.

Send Requests for Proposals to:

info@gorecon.net