Laboratory Tests

Laboratory facilities designed with you in mind.

At Field Verified’s 25,000-square foot laboratory, our trained technicians perform AAMA and ASTM tests on operable windows, storefronts and curtainwalls – even full-project facade mockups – in facilities designed with our clients in mind.

Logistics

In addition to the testing areas, the laboratory also has 7,000 square feet of indoor storage space for products and materials, so we are able to accept large deliveries with no height restrictions.

Location

In a climate that averages 301 days of sun and just 36 days of rain a year, the laboratory is perfectly located to conduct tests in a controlled environment any time of the year.

Hosting capabilities

Large groups can comfortably attend testing events in safety and style using our large hosting spaces. Field Verified regularly hosts manufacturer presentations, meetings for architectural and professional organizations, and contractor training sessions.

Laboratory Tests

Air Leakage

We conduct precise air infiltration testing according to ASTM E283 standards, measuring air penetration through window systems under controlled pressure differentials. Our sophisticated equipment can detect even minimal leakage, providing accurate cubic feet per minute readings to verify products meet energy efficiency requirements. We test both positive and negative pressure conditions to simulate real-world scenarios that buildings face during various weather conditions.

Water Leakage

Our water penetration testing follows ASTM E331 and AAMA 501.1 protocols, subjecting fenestration products to calibrated water spray systems while applying specified air pressure differentials. We meticulously inspect for any moisture penetration through joints, gaskets, or frame interfaces during extended test periods. The testing rigs we use can accommodate full-size assemblies to ensure results accurately reflect installed performance in actual building conditions.

Structural Performance

We evaluate structural integrity through ASTM E330 testing, applying both positive and negative pressures at increasing levels to assess deflection characteristics and ultimate load capacity. Our digital measurement systems track deflection at critical points to verify compliance with design load requirements and safety factors. We examine products for permanent deformation or component failure after maximum test pressures to ensure long-term structural reliability.

Condensation Resistance

Using AAMA 1503 test procedures, we measure the thermal efficiency of fenestration products by establishing temperature differentials across the assembly and monitoring surface temperatures. Our thermal imaging equipment identifies potential condensation formation areas on interior surfaces under controlled humidity conditions. We calculate Condensation Resistance Factor (CRF) values that help architects select appropriate products for specific climate zones and building applications.

Dynamic Water

We perform demanding AAMA 501.1 dynamic water tests that simulate driving rain conditions while creating air pressure changes resembling actual wind gusts. Our specialized equipment applies calibrated water spray while simultaneously creating cyclical pressure fluctuations to create worst-case weather scenarios. This aggressive testing reveals vulnerabilities that might not appear during static water testing, providing crucial performance data for high-rise and exposed building applications.

Thermal

Our thermal performance testing utilizes hot box apparatus compliant with NFRC 102 standards to measure U-factor, R-value, and overall thermal transmittance of window assemblies. We employ infrared thermography to identify thermal bridges and weak points in the insulation system under controlled temperature gradients. Our comprehensive analysis provides detailed thermal modeling that helps manufacturers optimize their designs for maximum energy efficiency.

UV Resistance

We conduct accelerated weathering tests according to ASTM G154 standards, exposing fenestration materials to concentrated ultraviolet radiation that simulates years of sun exposure. Our specialized chambers alternate UV exposure with moisture cycles to replicate real-world aging processes that affect gaskets, sealants, and finishes. We measure color retention, material degradation, and performance changes to predict long-term durability under harsh environmental conditions.

Interstory Drift

Our seismic performance testing follows AAMA 501.4 and 501.7 protocols, subjecting curtainwall and storefront assemblies to simulated building movement during earthquakes. We utilize specialized racking equipment that can displace frames both in-plane and out-of-plane to verify system integrity during seismic events. Our comprehensive analysis evaluates glass retention, operational functionality, and air/water seal maintenance after experiencing design-level displacement.

Durability

We assess long-term performance through AAMA 910 lifecycle testing, which subjects operable windows to thousands of opening and closing cycles to verify hardware durability. Our automated cycling equipment simulates decades of normal operation while monitoring operating force requirements and component wear patterns. We perform air and water testing before and after lifecycle testing to verify that performance characteristics remain intact throughout the product’s expected service life.

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