Field testing is an integral part of many GCI services for New Construction Quality Control Services and Remedial Investigations. It takes the guesswork out of whether a product, component or system is performing properly. Further it reproduces the environmental effects materials often experience in service and allows for proper observation and evaluation of performance.

Field Water Infiltration Tests

Field water infiltration tests simulate the effects of a wind driven rainstorm. The application of water alone may not produce the same effect. We use ASTM Test Method E 1105. It involves constructing a chamber across the inside face of an assembly and vacuuming air from it while applying water across the outside face from a uniform spray grid. It simulates the effect of a wind driven rainstorm. It is a field version of the laboratory test used to certify products.



Field Air Infiltration Tests

Field air infiltration tests measure air leakage through a window or door assembly. Preventing air infiltration helps reduce energy costs and noise. We use ASTM Test Method E 783 where a chamber is constructed across the face of an assembly and the rate of air leakage is measured and recorded. It is a field version of the laboratory test used to certify products.

Frost Point Testing of Insulated Glass Units

Insulated glass units typically consist of two lites of glass with a sealed airspace in-between. When the seal between the glass fails, the result is often fogging, dirt and debris inside the glass unit, obstructing and distorting vision through the glass. GCI can check insulated glass seal performance, document whether the glass unit is sound, and predict whether it will eventually fog. This is done with a frost point test of the insulated glass unit. The test is conducted with special equipment that uses dry ice to lower the temperature inside the sealed airspace to freezing or below. If any frost forms, the seal has failed. This test is frequently used in construction with warranty claims or for planning future repairs and renovations.

Sealant Adhesion Tests

A primary cause of sealant failure is poor adhesion. Improper surface preparation or improper installation often causes this. GCI can conduct adhesion pull tests of installed and cured sealant to assess performance and confirm a reasonable sealant life span.