Set up a pre-construction performance mockup (PMU) program to laboratory-test a proposed exterior wall system before full-scale installation

Steps

1. Use ASTM E2099, Standard Practice for the Specification and Evaluation of Pre-Construction Laboratory Mockups of Exterior Wall Systems, to structure mockup design, construction, observation, testing, and documentation
2. Confirm E2099 recommends a protocol for information exchange between project participants and assigns responsibility for specific mockup-program activities
3. Scope required performance tests within the mockup program: air and water infiltration before and after design-load application, wind-pressure effects, and inter-story movement, with optional tests for thermal performance, condensation risk, acoustics, and window-washer anchorage as needed
4. For dynamic water penetration testing within the mockup, reference AAMA 501.1 (wind-generator-driven water spray test, typically at 5 gph/ft² spray rate over a 15-minute hold), applicable to curtain walls, storefronts, window walls, WRB/AVB, and coping/fascia components
5. Select an accredited independent testing lab experienced in performance mockup (PMU) programs to build and test the mockup off-site or on a dedicated test rig
6. Feed mockup test results into the BECx design-phase peer review and use findings to correct construction documents before full-scale rollout