Methodological Proposal for On-Site Watertightness Testing with Wind Pressure on Facade Windows

Abstract

The watertightness of facade windows is a key aspect for guaranteeing habitability requirements in buildings. However, given the difficulty in reproducing atmospheric stress conditions outside the laboratory, no consolidated method exists for applying the test to facades in use. This study proposes an innovative method to test on-site the watertightness of facade windows simulating the impact of rain and wind. This was achieved by means of depressurization using the blower door test in interior rooms combined with the projection of exterior water. The use of nondestructive testing techniques supported by practice yielded an effective method of control and diagnosis capable of determining critical points susceptible to water leakage for windows on site. © 2017 American Society of Civil Engineers.