1 | Overview

The AAMA 501.2 test is a Quality Assurance and Diagnostic Water Leakage Field Check for installed storefronts, building windows, curtain walls, and sloped glazing systems.

It checks the assembly and installation of glazing joints, frames, sealants, and perimeter connections after installation.

This is a field water spray test that identifies potential points of infiltration before building occupancy and interior finishes are applied. 

2 | Applicability & Purpose

Applicable to:

• Storefront systems

• Curtain wall systems

• Window walls

• Sloped glazing and skylights

• Related façade details (perimeter seals, intersections, splices)

Note: Not designed for operable windows or doors. (eg. Sliding doors, awning sashes, etc.)

Purpose:

• A diagnostic tool and qualitative assessment to check for leaks and workmanship issues

• Provide a standardised field check following construction

Enable remediation before installation of internal finishes and project handover

3 | Test Preparation

3.1 | Select Test Area

Should include:

• Vision glass and spandrel glass surfaces

• Perimeter caulking and sealant joints

• Frame intersections (horizontal/vertical)

• Typical internal splices and connections

Note: Interior finishes should be removed or unfinished to allow visual inspection of leaks.

3.2 | Inspect & Clean

• Confirm that all systems are fully installed and closed.

• Clean test area of debris and temporary protective films that may interfere with water spray or mask leaks.

4 | Equipment & Setup 

4.1 | Spray Apparatus

Use a calibrated water spray assembly comprising:

• Type B-25 #6.030 brass nozzle with ½″ FPT connection

• Pressure gauge and control valve

• Supply hose

NOTE: the gauge should be calibrated every 6 months to ensure reliable operation

4.2 | Water Pressure

• Adjust to 30-35 PSI (207-241kPa) at the nozzle inlet throughout testing unless specified.

4.3 | Nozzle Positioning

• Hold nozzle perpendicular (90°) to the façade plane.

• Maintain a consistent distance of ~305mm (±25 mm) from the test surface.

5 | Step-by-Step Procedure

1. Break the test area into 1.5 m long spans of framing.

   • This helps to manage fatigue of the testers and identify the locations of leaks as the testing progresses.

2. Each 1.5m section is sprayed continuously for 5 minutes, moving the nozzle slowly back and forth, covering the entire length of the section.

   • Spraying time is adjusted to suit shorter sections as long as the duration matched 5minutes of testing per 1.5m span ie. 3 minutes for a 0.9m span.

3. While one technician conducts the testing another technician is inspecting the interior surfaces for water penetration.

6 | Acceptance Criteria

A leak is defined as:

• More than 15mLs of uncontrolled water appearing on normally exposed interior surfaces, including water that does not drain back to the exterior

• Any uncontrolled water that is not contained or drained back to the exterior, or that can cause damage to adjacent materials or finishes.

• Properly drained and contained water within designed flashings is not failure.

7 | Reporting Requirements

A comprehensive test report should include:

• Project and location details

• Test date, weather conditions, and personnel credentials

• Description of tested area and conditions

• Water pressure and equipment calibration data

• Locations of any leaks and source identification

• Photo documentation & recommendations

• Compliance statement against the AAMA 501.2 test method