Forensic Water Penetration Testing
Sovell Investigative Testing and Consulting (SITC) provides forensic water penetration testing to identify why, how, and to what extent buildings leak. Our testing follows recognized industry standards, including ASTM E2128 and AAMA 511, and is tailored to the specific conditions of each building.
What Makes Forensic Testing Different?
Forensic (investigative) testing is fundamentally different from quality assurance testing.
- Quality assurance testing (AAMA 502 and AAMA 503) is performed to confirm proper installation and performance.
- Forensic water penetration testing begins with the assumption that a leak already exists.
Rather than relying on conventional hypothesis testing or random qualitative sampling, forensic testing focuses on diagnosing known or suspected failures under controlled and reproducible conditions.
Our Objective
When conducting forensic water penetration testing, SITC’s objective is to determine:
- Why the building leaks
- How water is entering the building envelope
- The extent of the leakage and affected areas
This information allows owners, consultants, and contractors to make informed repair and remediation decisions.
Testing Methods
Depending on the building design and observed conditions, SITC may use one or more of the following investigative techniques:
- Simulation of surface water flow
- Simulation of wind-driven rain
- Simulation of kinetic energy effects
Diagnostic methods may be adapted from established standards, including:
- ASTM E331
- ASTM E547
Testing procedures may also be adapted from in-service quality assurance and diagnostic standards, such as:
- ASTM E1105
- AAMA 501.2
- AAMA 511
SITC selects the most appropriate methods—or combination of methods—to meet the specific objectives of each investigation.
Our Goal
The goal of forensic water penetration testing is to recreate known leakage conditions using controlled, repeatable procedures, allowing the root cause of water intrusion to be accurately identified.
Experience You Can Trust
To view examples of forensic water penetration testing projects previously completed by SITC, please visit our Projects page.
Contact Us
If your firm requires forensic water penetration testing services, contact Sovell Investigative Testing and Consulting at:
📞 1-952-367-6578
