Fenestration

Water and air infiltration testing of fenestration units (doors, windows, curtain wall and store front systems) is a critical part of the quality control process for successful projects.

There are two milestone events in the project where fenestration testing is most important. At the start of work, one of each type of fenestration unit should be constructed as a mockup and tested. This allows the manufactured unit and the specified installation procedure to be proven to be acceptable. It also will serve as the standard of quality to measure the Contractor’s workmanship. All subsequent installation shall meet this standard of quality.

Prior to the close out of the project, testing a specified number of units selected by the Design Professional is recommended. If all completed units are not tested, Merik recommends testing a minimum of 5 percent.

Merik recommends the cost of testing be paid by the Contractor and be included in the bid amount of the project. Any units that do not pass testing will be repaired or replaced at no expense to the Owner. Additional testing will be done until the affected units pass the specified test procedures.

All testing shall be made using factory manufactured equipment that has been certified to be in compliance with the test standards. The test agent shall demonstrate experience with a minimum of five projects of similar scope and size.