AAMA Releases Updated Standard Test Method for Water Penetration Using Dynamic Pressure

The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) recently released an updated document to provide a standard water penetration test method when it comes to using dynamic pressure.

AAMA 501.1-17, the Standard Test Method for Water Penetration of Windows, Curtain walls and Doors Using Dynamic Pressure, establishes the equipment and procedures for testing.

In it, a section on test equipment updated to clarify what to do for laboratory testing versus on-site testing.

“The AAMA 501.1 dynamic pressure water test has been used as a laboratory test for over 50 years and is particularly useful when testing pressure equalized fenestration systems when severe windblown rain is a concern,” said Greg McKenna (Kawneer), officer of the AAMA Methods of Test Committee. “In more recent years, this test has been used in the field due to the added benefit that a separate vacuum chamber is not needed. This is advantage if the building is occupied or if constructing a chamber at the building site is not a practical option.”

Additional edits to this updated standard include the addition of two figures showing images of acceptable water leakage, plus a definition for what unacceptable water penetration means.

AAMA 501.1-17, as well as other AAMA documents, may be purchased from AAMA’s online store. More information about AAMA and its activities can be found on the AAMA website.

AAMA is the source of performance standards, product certification, and educational programs for the fenestration industry.SM