AAMA 503 Field Testing of Newly Installed Storefronts, Curtain Walls, and Sloped Glazing Systems

AAMA 503-24 – Voluntary Specification for Field Testing of Newly Installed Storefronts, Curtain Walls, and Sloped Glazing Systems – provides guidelines for verifying the air infiltration resistance and water penetration resistance of newly installed systems and their installation.

At Sovell Investigative Testing and Consulting (SITC), we perform AAMA 503 testing to ensure newly installed systems meet performance expectations and project specifications before building occupancy.

When AAMA 503 Applies

AAMA 503 testing is limited to:

  • Newly installed storefronts, curtain walls, and sloped glazing systems
  • Conducted during construction, prior to the building occupancy permit
  • Completed no later than six months after installation

This specification is intended for quality assurance testing only.

Excluded Products:

  • Windows, glass doors, and skylights are not included and should be tested using AAMA 502.

After occupancy or six months post-installation:

  • Field testing should follow alternative standards, such as ASTM E1105, ASTM E783, or AAMA 511, depending on the situation.

Test Parameters and Variations

AAMA 503 testing may vary depending on project and system requirements:

  • Product type: Storefront, curtain wall, or sloped glazing
  • Scope: Air infiltration only, water penetration only, or both
  • Test pressure: Full project pressure vs. 2/3 of project-specified water penetration pressure
  • Allowable air leakage: 1.5× the project specification rate or 0.09 cfm/ft²

SITC discusses all variations with clients to ensure proper methodology and clear understanding of results.

How AAMA 503 Differs from ASTM Standards

  • Unlike ASTM E783, AAMA 503 includes allowable rates for air infiltration
  • Unlike ASTM E1105, water penetration testing can be conducted at 2/3 of the project-specified test pressure

Personnel conducting AAMA 503 testing must understand both:

  • ASTM standards referenced within AAMA 503
  • Current laboratory standards for air and water performance

SITC Expertise in AAMA 503 Testing

All SITC personnel have extensive laboratory and field experience, allowing us to:

  • Provide accurate, reliable test results
  • Troubleshoot products and installations with deficiencies
  • Offer actionable guidance, not just raw data

By combining ASTM knowledge with field experience, SITC ensures that clients receive comprehensive results and solutions.

Contact SITC for AAMA 503 Field Testing

For assistance with AAMA 503 field testing, consultation, or training, contact SITC today.