AAMA 502 Field Testing of Newly Installed Fenestration Products
AAMA 502-21 – Voluntary Specification for Field Testing of Newly Installed Fenestration Products – provides guidelines for evaluating the installed performance of windows and doors for air leakage resistance and water penetration resistance under controlled, reproducible conditions.
At Sovell Investigative Testing and Consulting (SITC), we use AAMA 502 to perform quality assurance testing during construction, ensuring fenestration products meet performance expectations before building occupancy.
When AAMA 502 Applies
AAMA 502 testing is limited to:
- Newly installed fenestration products
- Conducted during construction, before the issuance of the building occupancy permit
- Completed no later than six months after installation
This specification is intended for quality assurance purposes only.
Excluded Systems:
- Curtain walls
- Sloped glazing
- Storefront systems
These systems are tested per AAMA 503 as required.
After occupancy or six months post-installation:
- Field testing should follow AAMA 511
- For complex water penetration issues, forensic testing may also utilize AAMA 511 and ASTM E2128.
Environmental Considerations
AAMA 502 emphasizes that ambient conditions affect test results. Key points:
- Wind, rain, temperature, and barometric changes can influence performance
- Water spray testing should avoid rain, snow, or high winds, unless the test area is isolated
- Ignoring ambient factors may invalidate test results
Variations and Test Parameters
Testing using AAMA 502 may vary depending on project requirements:
- Product type: Rated under ASTM E331 or ASTM E547?
- Test scope: Air infiltration only, water penetration only, or both
- Test pressure: Full vs. 2/3 of laboratory-rated pressure for water penetration
- Allowable air leakage: 1.5× the applicable AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440 rate
SITC communicates all variations with clients to ensure proper test methodology and clear understanding of results.
How AAMA 502 Differs from ASTM Standards
- Unlike ASTM E783, AAMA 502 includes allowable rates for air infiltration
- Unlike ASTM E1105, water penetration testing can be performed at 2/3 of rated laboratory pressure
Personnel conducting AAMA 502 testing must understand:
- ASTM standards referenced within AAMA 502
- The most current laboratory testing standards for air and water performance
SITC Expertise in AAMA 502 Testing
All SITC personnel have extensive laboratory and field experience, allowing us to:
- Provide accurate, reliable test results
- Troubleshoot installations and products with deficiencies
- Offer actionable answers, not just data
Our expertise ensures clients receive both compliance verification and practical guidance for improving fenestration performance.
Contact SITC for AAMA 502 Field Testing
For assistance with AAMA 502 quality assurance testing, consultation, or training, contact SITC today.
