Svendour FAQs
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Façade water testing can also be referred to as a water penetration field test. Guidelines for testing are designed by American Standard for Testing and Materials (ASTM 1105) and The Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA 501 & AAMA 502) which meet all Australian and New Zealand standards. Both have specific protocols for spray tests, depending on certain variables, such as the type of fenestration product – whether it be a storefront, curtain wall, or individual operable and inoperable window assemblies – the purpose of the test, and the environmental conditions to be simulated.
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AAMA 501.2 testing is a dynamic water penetration test used to assess the performance of facade and curtain wall systems under simulated wind-driven rain conditions. It helps identify leaks, installation issues and compliance risks before or after project completion, ensuring the building envelope performs as designed.
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Yes. Svendour is fully NATA accredited for AAMA 501.2 water testing and provides NATA accredited water testing services for facade and building envelope systems. Our accreditation ensures testing is carried out to recognised national standards, providing independent and reliable results for consultants, builders and project managers.
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ASTM E1105-15: Field Determination of Water Penetration of Installed Exterior Windows, Skylights, Doors, and Curtain Walls - For more information click here.
AAMA 501.2-15: Quality Assurance and Water Field Check of Installed Storefronts, Curtain Walls and Sloped Glazing Systems - For more information click here.
AAMA 502-12: Field Testing of Newly Installed Fenestration Products - For more information click here.
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Water Intrusion on a building façade can result in costly repairs and disruption to the building occupants, if identified prior to completion of a buildings construction these problems can be avoided. Water penetration may occur due to improper installation of the window or its associated sealants, a defect in the window’s construction at the time of manufacture, or by simply just shipping the product to the job site. While some may consider the testing to be an additional project expense, the cost of testing is small compared to the potential costs down the road.
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Ideally a water test is best conducted prior to internal fit out as this allows for the easiest identification of areas experiencing water intrusion and if any rectification work is required it can be carried out with minimal disturbance to the rest of the structure and internal fittings. However, this may not always be possible and we can always work with the client to ensure proper testing and any possible rectification works are carried out in the least disruptive manner at any stage of the project even after the project has been completed.
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ASTM E1105 and AMMA 501 & AMMA 502 specify the exact equipment required to carry out this test. Click here to view the equipment we use to conduct these tests.
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Yes. We provide facade water testing Sydney-wide, as well as across the Illawarra, Central Coast, Northern NSW and greater NSW. Our team works on commercial, residential and remedial projects requiring reliable building envelope testing.
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We provide building water testing for a wide range of projects including high-rise residential apartments, commercial buildings, government facilities, healthcare developments, education buildings and remedial projects. Our services are tailored to both new construction and existing buildings.
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Our building water testing Sydney services include facade water testing, curtain wall testing, water infiltration testing, leak identification, NCC compliance testing and AAMA 501.2 accredited testing. Each service is designed to identify defects, verify performance and support compliance requirements.
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AAMA 501.2 accredited testing refers to testing carried out in accordance with the AAMA 501.2 standard for water penetration resistance in curtain wall and facade systems. At Svendour, this testing is delivered under our NATA accreditation, ensuring independent and recognised industry-standard results.
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Yes. We regularly assist clients with short-notice bookings for urgent facade testing, leak investigations and compliance testing. Our responsive team is experienced in coordinating testing on active construction sites and occupied buildings.
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We work closely with facade engineers, builders and project managers across all project stages. Our role is to provide independent NATA accredited water testing and practical site-based support to ensure facade systems perform as required.
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Svendour combines over 30 years of industry experience with NATA accredited water testing capability, fast reporting, short-notice availability and specialist remedial expertise. Our small, experienced team delivers practical, reliable testing with a strong focus on communication and project outcomes.
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AAMA 501.2 testing is a field test used to assess the water penetration resistance of installed windows, curtain walls and building facades. Unlike laboratory testing, it is carried out on-site using a calibrated spray rack and controlled air pressure to replicate wind-driven rain under real-world conditions.
The purpose of AAMA 501.2 testing is to verify that a facade has been installed correctly and performs as intended before water leaks become a costly problem. It can identify issues such as poor workmanship, failed seals, installation defects or detailing errors that may not be visible during a standard visual inspection.
For builders, developers, facade engineers and consultants, AAMA 501.2 testing provides confidence that the building envelope is weather-resistant and compliant with project performance requirements. It is commonly specified for new construction, high-rise developments and projects where quality assurance is critical.
At Svendour, our experienced technicians perform NATA-accredited facade water testing in accordance with AAMA 501.2, delivering accurate, independent results and practical advice to help resolve any issues quickly. Early testing can reduce remediation costs, minimise project delays and ensure your facade is performing as designed before handover.