AAMA 516 – Sill Dam Evaluation Method

AAMA 516 – Sill Dam Evaluation Method

Purpose:
This guide provides a standardized method to evaluate water leakage through sill joinery and sill penetrations in fenestration products. It is not intended to assess:

• Integration between fenestration and wall systems
• Joints between fenestration assemblies or adjacent materials
• Any component of the fenestration product outside the sill

⚠️ Using this method in isolation, without also performing AAMA 502 or AAMA 503, may not detect all potential leak paths.

Scope of Evaluation

This evaluation method is strictly for testing water resistance of the sill joinery.
It cannot be used to assess any other joint, seam, or connection in the frame. Using it outside of this purpose may produce unreliable results.

Specimen Inspection Requirements

Before testing, the designated specimen(s) must be inspected to confirm:

• The specimen is plumb, level, and square
• The specimen operates correctly
• The designed drainage path is intact
• All surfaces are in a condition suitable for evaluating water penetration caused by the test

Primary Uses

The sill dam evaluation method is typically applied in three scenarios:

1. Quality assurance of newly manufactured products before installation
2. Evaluation of new or newly installed fenestration products to confirm watertightness of sill joinery and penetrations
3. Optional forensic field check for investigating possible water leakage through sill joinery

Test Procedure

1. Apply a hydrostatic water head to the fenestration product sill, or to the subframe/receptor system if applicable.
2. Water depth should not exceed 2/3 of the product’s rated capacity.
3. Maintain water in the sill for 15 minutes.

Schedule AAMA 516 Testing

If you need professional AAMA 516 testing for windows, doors, storefronts or curtain wall systems, contact Sovell Investigative Testing and Consulting to discuss your project requirements and scheduling needs.