World-Class Testing Standards

Allana Buick & Bers, Inc. (ABB) is a full service Architectural Engineering firm specializing in building envelope systems including design, forensics, construction administration, and quality assurance services, like testing. Typical testing and verification services include mock-up testing, on-site testing, observation for quality assurance, water testing, and code compliance verification.

Testing can be used as a tool to verify compliance with construction documents and manufacturers’ published performance. For unproven or untested assemblies, prefabricated items (panels, windows, and curtain walls), and integration with discrete building systems, it reveals short or long term weaknesses in construction or fabrication. Testing and verification, when used in conjunction with proper design and observations, can be invaluable and pays for itself many times over.

Our forensic expertise includes:
Below-Grade

Fountains

Lanais, balconies, and decks

Parking structures

Planters

Plaza and podium

Slab on grade

Vapor barrier

Coatings and linings

Expansion joints

Foundation walls

Pool decks

Electronic Leak Detection

We can investigate complex building envelope leaks, developing strategies for temporary leak repairs and a rough order of magnitude cost for repairs, as well as long-term and permanent remedial measures. We use cutting-edge equipment to perform a variety of tests in accordance with ASTM and AAMA protocol for locating leak sources and building performance issues, including electronic leak detection (ELD).

More Info

Services

Tests We Offer

  • AAMA 501-05: Test methods for exterior walls
  • AAMA 501.1-17: Test method for water penetration of windows, curtain walls, and doors using dynamic pressure
  • More Info on Air Barrier Testing
  • ASTM D5957-13: Standard guide for flood testing horizontal waterproofing installations
  • ASTM D7877-14: Standard guide for electronic methods for detecting and locating leaks in waterproof membranes
  • ASTM D7954-15a: Standard practice for moisture surveying of roofing and waterproofing systems using non-destructive electrical impedance scanners
  • ASTM C1153-15: Standard practice for location of wet insulation in roofing systems using infrared imaging
  • ASTM: E376-96: Standard practice for measuring coating thickness by the magnetic field test methods
  • ASTM B499-09: Standard method for measurement of coating thickness by the magnetic method
  • ASTM D1186-01: Standard test methods for non-destructive measurement of dry film thickness of non-magnetic coatings
  • ASTM D4414-95: Standard practice for measurement of wet film thickness by notched gages
  • ASTM D4138: Standard practice for measurement of dry film thickness or protective coating systems by destructive cross-sectioning means
  • ASTM E779: Standard test method for determining air leakage rate by fan pressurization
  • ASTM E1827: Standard test method for determining building air tightness using an orifice blower door
  • ASTM E907-04: Standard test method for field testing uplift resistance of adhered membrane roofing systems
  • ASTM C1568-08: Standard test method for wind resistance of concrete and clay roof tiles (Mechanical Uplift Resistance Method)
  • ASTM D7158 / D7158 M-11: Standard test method for wind resistance of asphalt shingles (Uplift Force/Uplift Resistance Method)

What Clients Say

We have worked with ABBAE on dozens of projects over the last ten years on various levels and scope of services. We have utilized ABBAE for investigations, design consultation and multiple due diligence surveys of potential building acquisitions with great success. ABBAE consistently exceeds our expectations and we will continue to look for their expertise on potential upcoming projects.

Peter M. Rocereto, BRE Properties