AAMA 501.2 Quality Assurance and Diagnostic Water Leakage Field Check

AAMA 501.2-25 – Quality Assurance and Diagnostic Water Leakage Field Check of Installed Storefronts, Curtain Walls, and Sloped Glazing Systems – provides a method to evaluate the water-tightness of installed systems.

At Sovell Investigative Testing and Consulting (SITC), we use AAMA 501.2 to identify water intrusion paths, deficiencies in joints, gaskets, and sealants details in the glazing, and provide actionable solutions beyond simple pass/fail results.

Purpose of the Test

This field check is designed to:

  • Perform quality assurance and diagnostic evaluation of installed storefronts, curtain walls, and sloped glazing systems
  • Assess joints, gaskets, and sealants details in the glazing intended to remain permanently closed and watertight

Note: This test is not intended to evaluate full product ratings for wind-driven rain — AAMA 503 is used for full water penetration and air infiltration testing.

Exclusions:

  • Operable components (doors, windows, vents, etc.)

Test Area Selection

  • Designated by the architect or owner’s representative
  • If not specified, SITC personnel select a representative area, with a minimum size of 100 ft²
  • Interior wall materials are removed at the test area to allow visual inspection of potential water entry points

Testing Procedure

SITC follows a precise, standardized procedure:

  1. Equipment: Type B-25, #6.30 brass nozzle with 1/2″ FPT (Newton Tool)
  2. Water Pressure: Adjusted to 30–35 psi at the nozzle inlet
  3. Test Execution:
    • Divide the test area into five-foot sections
    • Hold the nozzle perpendicular to the wall, 1 foot away
    • Spray each section for five minutes, moving the nozzle slowly back and forth
  4. Observation:
    • SITC personnel observe the interior for any water penetration
    • If water is detected, track its migration path back to the source
    • Conduct a cause-and-effect analysis to identify deficiencies

SITC Approach and Expertise

SITC goes beyond pass/fail criteria:

  • Identifies the exact path of leaks
  • Diagnoses installation or material deficiencies contributing to water penetration
  • Provides actionable recommendations to prevent future leaks

This investigative approach ensures clients understand the root causes of water intrusion and receive solutions, not just results.

Contact SITC for AAMA 501.2 Field Checks

For quality assurance or diagnostic water leakage testing of storefronts, curtain walls, or sloped glazing systems, contact SITC today.