Water intrusion inspection - E1105 rain leak testing in Los Angeles

Pressurized Testing Chambers for Water Intrusion Testing

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Pressurized Testing Chambers for Water Intrusion Testing

Let’s say a property owner calls and requests a water intrusion test because they suspect that their windows, walls, doors or penetrations are leaking. It’s impossible to check for leaks by using a garden hose or some type of spray device to potentially find the entry point of the water because a water hose applied too much pressure and water volume. In some cases forcing a specimen to leak that may not have leaked anyway.

 

A professional Building Leak Detection Company will use specialized equipment such as pressurized testing chambers to create the same conditions as if it were raining and windy. Pressurized testing chambers for water intrusion testing are an option that in our experience, has lead to success in finding rain water leaks.

water intrusion testing in Los Angeles

Water Testing Method for Watertight Windows or Walls

The first thing we need to do when we first get to the property is assess the problem. We try to figure out what type of method will be best to find where the water is coming into the building. One of the most effective tests that we have used, as experienced water intrusion specialists, are pressurized testing chambers. The vacuum combined with the high pressure test chamber can prove to be an absolutely helpful test.

pressure chamber window leak testing

Pressurized Test Chamber System

Pressurized testing chambers are used for water intrusion testing to determine how well  a window, wall, door system or penetration can resist water intrusion under specific conditions. Some of these conditions, for example, include rain or wind driven rain. The chambers create controlled surroundings  where water can be sprayed  onto the building at different pressures recreate weather conditions as if they were happening.

Building Leak Detection Services Uses Pressurized Testing Chambers

We build the pressure chambers on site by applying them to the area of suspected water intrusion. The chambers are typically made of  materials such as aluminum or plastic to withstand high-pressure conditions. They are designed to be sealed tightly to prevent any water leakage during the testing process. The chambers and water spray alone don’t create the specific condition without the use of a vacuum.

Spray Racks are Used with a Vacuum

Spray Racks are Used with a Vacuum

The areas are not always easily accessible so special equipment may need to be used to set up the pressure chamber and perform the test. To conduct the test, the configured area is placed inside the chamber and securely sealed. The water pressure is determined based on information collected by the water intrusion specialists.

Water is then sprayed or applied to the exterior surface using specialized components such as nozzles or spray systems. The pressure of the water can be adjusted to recreate different weather conditions, such as heavy rain or wind-driven rain. It really just depends on what the test requirements or for the pressure chamber test.

When utilizing a pressured test chamber, it is necessary to place the complete window or window assembly inside of a chamber that is airtight and has the capability of correctly simulating rain conditions. Using this strategy allows for testing that is both regulated and exact.

These are the industry test standards that we utilize to simulate water leaks, moisture intrusion, or rain leak testing over the entirety of Los Angeles and Southern California.

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