QED Lab, Inc.

  In modern construction, Building Envelope Testing is crucial not only for the long-term operational performance of the building but also for its leakage performance. It focuses on whether the building can protect from all external impacts, maintain energy efficiency, and provide long-term comfort. During the construction of a new building or modernization of an older building,   field testing   and air barrier testing are critical to identify and resolve concealed problems and to validate the performance of the building envelope. What is Building Envelope Testing? Building Envelope Testing identifies air, water, or thermal leakages and measures the performance of the physical separation of the conditioned space of the Building from the external environment. It identifies insulation, walls, windows, doors, roofing, and other thermal barrier components of the Building. Why Is Building Envelope Testing Important? An inaccurately constructed or sealed building envelope can ...

  Efficiency standards are changing rapidly in the industry. Windows and doors in the commercial buildings and offices are constructed using high grade energy efficient materials. In Bend, Oregon, AAMA 503-14 is now the standard marking evaluation for the commercial windows in the region, ensuring that windows are energy efficient, properly sealed, and have long-lasting durability. This standard is paramount in the prevention of energy loss through inadequate insulation or poor-quality glazing in the windows. With the rising demand of energy efficient buildings, it's crucial for the builders, architects, contractors, and the property owners to familiarize themselves with the AAMA 503-14 guidelines. What does AAMA 503-14 mean? AAMA 503-14 is an industry standard which has determined the air infiltration, water penetration, and the overall structural performance rating of installed commercial windows. AAMA 503-14 is not a factory test. It is a field test conducted post window inst...

  The Hidden Threat of Water Intrusion in Buildings Water intrusion is one of the most overlooked but damaging issues in the construction and long-term maintenance of buildings. When water breaches the exterior envelope of a structure, it can cause mold growth, material degradation, compromised structural integrity, and costly repairs. To mitigate these risks, the construction industry follows standardized testing protocols that ensure building components can withstand environmental exposure. One such critical standard is ASTM E331 , which outlines a method for water penetration testing of exterior windows, curtain walls, skylights, and doors under uniform static air pressure differences. What Is ASTM E331 and Why It Matters ASTM E331 is widely regarded as a benchmark test for evaluating a building envelope's water resistance. The test method is designed to simulate real-world weather conditions, especially those experienced during heavy rainfall accompanied by wind. The goal is no...