Decide whether a curtain wall or storefront field water-tightness check should be specified as AAMA 501.2 or ASTM E1105, and understand what each actually verifies.

Steps

1. Confirm AAMA 501.2 ('Quality Assurance and Water Field Check of Installed Storefronts, Curtain Walls and Sloped Glazing Systems') uses a hand-held spray wand producing 30 psi at the nozzle, with NO artificial interior/exterior pressure differential induced
2. Confirm ASTM E1105 uses a calibrated spray rack apparatus combined with an interior or exterior air chamber to create a specified static pressure differential, simulating wind-driven rain conditions
3. Recognize the intended use difference: AAMA 501.2 is a quicker, less destructive spot-check aimed at finding localized sealant/gasket/interface failures, often used before interior finishes go up, while ASTM E1105 is a more rigorous performance test simulating actual storm-load conditions
4. Check whether the project spec, warranty program (e.g., a manufacturer's sealant warranty), or AHJ mandates one method specifically — the two are not interchangeable substitutes in a spec section
5. Confirm the testing lab or field agency is accredited/experienced in the specific method being specified (e.g., via an AAMA-accredited field testing provider) before scheduling