UNDERSTANDING AAMA 501.2: A SIMPLIFIED GUIDE

AAMA 501.2-15 defines a standardized procedure for conducting field water leakage testing on fixed glazing systems, including storefronts, curtain walls, and sloped glazing assemblies. This diagnostic field check evaluates the integrity of non-operable components—such as permanently sealed joints, gaskets, and frame intersections—to verify their ability to resist water penetration. The test is commonly performed after installation and before interior finishes are applied, allowing for early identification and correction of deficiencies.

This procedure is not a performance test simulating wind-driven rain, but instead serves as a quick, efficient, widely accessible quality control measure to ensure the proper execution of sealant applications, framing connections, and other critical water management details.

Jump to Section:


AAMA 501.2 test being performed on a skylight

Test Procedure

The AAMA 501.2 test involves controlled application of water to exterior framing members using a specific spray nozzle and water pressure, applied at a fixed distance from the test area.

  • Spray Nozzle: Testing requires a Type B-25, #6.030 brass nozzle with a 0.5-inch (13 mm) female pipe thread (FPT) connection, manufactured by Monarch Manufacturing Works. Inquiries/ordering at Monarch Manufacturing.
  • Water Pressure The nozzle is supplied with water at a controlled pressure of 30 to 35 psi (205 to 240 kPa) at the nozzle inlet.
  • Spray Distance & Angle: The nozzle is positioned 12 inches (305 mm ± 25 mm) from the test surface, held normal (perpendicular) to the wall plane, and manually moved back and forth to provide relatively uniform wetting.
  • Application Duration: The test progresses in 5-foot (1.5 m) segments, with each section sprayed for 5 continuous minutes before advancing to the next.

While the test is conducted, an observer inside the building inspects for water penetration using a flashlight as necessary to detect moisture infiltration.

^ Back to Top

Pass/Fail Criteria

Water leakage is defined as any uncontrolled water appearing on normally exposed interior surfaces, including the following:

  • Water that does not drain back to the exterior through designed weeps.
  • Water that accumulates on interior finishes or framing in a manner that could cause material damage.
  • More than 15 ml (½ oz) of water collecting on an interior framing surface within the 5-minute test period.

Water that remains contained within properly drained flashings, gutters, or sills is not considered a failure.

^ Back to Top

Documentation & Compliance

The test report must include the followuing:

  • Test agency & personnel information
  • Building location, test date, and environment conditions
  • Glazing system manufacturer, model, and specifications
  • Detailed observations, including locations of leakage and corrective actions
  • Statement of compliance (or deviations from AAMA 501.2 methodology)

^ Back to Top

Industry Applications

AAMA 501.2 testing is widely utilized in:.

  • Quality assurance for newly installed storefronts, curtain walls, and sloped glazing
  • Diagnostic field investigations for water intrusion issues
  • Pre-occupancy verification of building envelope performance

^ Back to Top
AAMA 501.2 test being performed on a curtain wall sill

Other Notes

Unlike ASTM E1105, which evaluates air and water infiltration under a static pressure differential, the AAMA 501.2 test is performed without inducing an artificial pressure difference between the building’s interior and exterior. Instead, this method applies water spray directly to fixed joints and components at a controlled pressure, rate, duration, and distance, simulating water exposure without the influence of wind or pressure-driven infiltration.

This distinction is critical: AAMA 501.2 does not simulate wind-driven rain. Instead, it is used to identify localized failures in joint sealant applications, glazing gaskets, and system interfaces—all before interior finishes are applied, reducing costly rework and long-term liability.

^ Back to Top

Final Thoughts

Because AAMA 501.2 only applies water without pressure differentials, it is an effective tool for identifying improper sealant applications, misaligned framing members, and compromised gaskets—all issues that may not immediately manifest under ASTM E1105 but could result in long-term failure when subjected to actual wind loads.

This targeted, controlled method allows construction teams, envelope consultants, and glazing contractors to identify and resolve water leakage issues before costly repairs become necessary, ensuring long-term durability and code compliance for the installed system.

^ Back to Top
🔹 Frequently Asked Questions
AAMA 501.2 is a field water test designed to evaluate the water penetration resistance of installed curtain walls, storefronts, and exterior glazing systems.
Unlike ASTM E1105, which uses a calibrated spray rack and static air pressure differential, AAMA 501.2 applies water directly using a spray nozzle while observing leakage under natural building pressure conditions.
This test is typically performed after installation but before project completion to verify the water tightness of newly installed curtain walls and storefronts.
AAMA 501.2 is a qualitative test rather than a quantitative analysis, meaning it identifies leaks but does not measure exact water penetration rates.

NOTEWORTHY FROM HTL

Independent studies, industry papers, slideshows, video presentations, and other content benefiting those in the industry with the patience to read five pages, and diagrams for the developers.

  • Meet the New UI Design
    ASTM E783 AND ALL-GLASS FACADES

    Industry-wide, invalid and improperly executed ASTM E783 test data are not providing a reliably accurate accounting of the building's air-tightness on window wall and curtain wall systems comprising the majority of envelopes built this century and, consequently, building stakeholders are blind to their property's performance.

  • ssg system scale
    SSG ITEMS OF CONCERN

    In this Notes From The Field article, HTL checks in on the U.S. construction industry's widespread use and mis-use of structural glazing systems.

  • Lean
    BEAM03 PROCEDURE INTRODUCTION

    The BEAM03 procedure introduces a novel approach to evaluating building envelope water resistivity, addressing critical gaps in traditional QAQC practices. BEAM03 delivers reliable, repeatable data for assessing large-scale envelope performance, including complex geometries and system transitions.