Industry-standard diagnostic field testing.
BECS provides field testing services to help with identifying the causes of various building envelope problems.
BECS engineers and technicians use diagnostic techniques to evaluate structural distress and deterioration, water and air infiltration, and load test methods to verify structural performance.
Our methods are based upon industry standards and code requirements established by professional organizations such as ASTM (ASTM International, formerly known as American Society for Testing and Materials) and AAMA (American Architectural Manufacturers Association).
Field Tests We Provide Include:
ASTM and AAMA Water Testing
Finding water leaks in your building can be scary. If left uncontrolled, water damage and mold could soon set it causing additional costs for repair. Finding the source leak is paramount to prevent additional water intrusion, but water is fluid and follows the path of least resistance. A sign of a leak in one area may be originating from another area, or maybe it only leaks under the conditions such as wind-driven rain.
BECS’s expert staff understands the frustrations owners, managers, and tenants face when they see signs of water. Following practices outlined by ASTM and AAMA allows BECS to perform diagnostic testing with water to simulate rainfall or wind-driven rain to identify the source of entry and to follow the leak path.
Wall Penetration and Drainage Testing
keeping the outside out
Masonry walls are constructed to control water. Whether they are mass walls or cavity walls, understanding how it handles water is key to identifying moisture and leaks.
BECS will help identify how the porous masonry absorbs water, how much water penetrates, and check to see how penetrating water is evacuated back outside.
Common Standard Practice Wall Penetration and Drainage Tests:
ASTM C 1601 – for Field Determination of Water Penetration of Masonry Wall Surfaces
ASTM C 1715 – for Evaluation of Water Leakage Performance of Masonry Wall Drainage Systems
ASTM E 2128 – for Evaluating Water Leakage Of Building Walls