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FGIA releases updated Methods of Test for Exterior Walls document

The Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA) has updated a document serving a recommended practice for use by specifiers, manufacturers and laboratories in determining test methodology for laboratory and field testing of exterior wall systems containing products covered by an AAMA standard, such as curtain walls, storefronts, window walls and sloped glazing. AAMA 501-24(https://store.fgiaonline.org/pubstore/ProductResults.asp?cat=0&src=501), “Methods of Test for Exterior Walls,” an FGIA document, is now available for purchase in the FGIA online store. This document was last updated in 2015.

Per the document, its mandatory and optional test methods are used to evaluate the performance of a complete system and shall not take the place of structural calculations and/or accepted engineering practice. The test methods, specifications, field test and checks referenced in this document are used to check the structural adequacy of wall system test specimens and their ability to resist water penetration and air leakage. Also referenced are optional tests for thermal cycling, inter-story displacement, static and dynamic seismic racking, acoustical performance and thermal performance, some of which require additional test specimens.

“The document had a very thorough review and revision performed to clarify how it could be used for a variety of purposes which had been outside of the limited scope of previous editions. To help make the document a little easier to use, the tests have been placed into a table that provides a logical sequence for the testing to be conducted and highlights required tests and optional tests,” said Rich Rinka, FGIA Technical Manager, Fenestration Standards and U.S. Industry Affairs.

AAMA 501-24, as well as other documents available from FGIA, may be purchased from the online store at the discounted member rate of $20 or the non-member price of $60.

For more information about FGIA and its activities, visit FGIAonline.org.