testing-building-envelope

Testing

Testing  

In addition to consulting, SOCOTEC can provide facade commissioning, QA/QC monitoring, and inspection services, ensuring that projects meet all necessary industry standards. We have developed an efficient internal QA/QC process that ensures a consistent approach to communication, issue recognition, and faster resolution. 

Whether standalone or during the Design Assist process, SOCOTEC observes individual glass mock-ups followed by a full visual mock-up of a curtain wall with integrated column cladding (or similar for other façade systems). After system approval, the performance mockup testing, and optional acoustic and/or blast mock-up can be performed. Throughout this mock-up process, SOCOTEC helps with the setting of expectations when reviewing samples and visual mock-ups especially for complex and large-size glass panels. We have traveled to façade manufacturing facilities all over the world and are familiar with the production practices and standards applicable to a project and how to get quality glass. 

Performance Mock Up  

SOCOTEC reviews mock-up drawings, test criteria and test sequence regarding technical appropriateness and conformance to contract documents. We witness the formal mock-up test and prepare a report which can be used as a guide for monitoring of the job site installation, and will provide a comprehensive final report with photographs and sketches illustrating inspection observations, modification to the design at completion of testing and any additional recommendations. In addition, SOCOTEC will provide consultation for remediation of any deficiencies, and retesting procedures, if required. The testing program will include tests for static air infiltration, static and dynamic water infiltration, as well as, structural, seismic, thermal, and condensation performance of the exterior wall. Finally, our team reviews, comments and provides recommendations for mock-up shop drawings, as revised by the Contractor to reflect “as-tested” conditions. 

Visual Mock Up  

SOCOTEC reviews visual mock-up drawings and test reports for technical appropriateness and conformance to contract documents. Our team also inspects visual mock-up at the site or manufacture’s facility with the Project Design Team and prepares a report of our observations.  The issue of glass quality, distortion, quench marks, and flatness is a key factor.   We have visited dozens of glass shops all over the world. We have the in-depth knowledge of standards, evaluation processes and the fabrication quality assurance process to mitigate risks of downstream disappointment.      

Non Destructive Testing (NDT)  

SOCOTEC has strategically invested in the latest Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) technologies.  We provide these testing services for both exterior and interior building systems to aid in identifying root causes for component or system deficiencies and failures.  NDT techniques are helpful in determining the integrity of a material, structure or system without causing additional damage to the building.  As a third-party independent provider of NDT investigation services, we offer a non-bias analysis of system components to identify source and severity of issues and provide potential recommendations for remediation. 

Our NDT systems equipment and services include: 

  • Electronic Membrane Roof Leak Detection (EMRLD) 
  • Infrared Thermal Imaging 
  • Spectrophotometer Testing 
  • Ultrasonic Testing 
  • Indoor Environmental Testing (HOBO) 

Learn more about our NDT Services.

Talk to our experts

dan-popadynec

Dan POPADYNEC

Senior Principal | Director, New Construction Facades

Senior Principal | Director, New Construction Facades

dan.popadynec@socotec.us +1 212 689 5389

Want to know more about our Testing services? Contact us

Contact Us
dan.popadynec@socotec.us

Talk to our experts

dan-popadynec

Dan POPADYNEC

Senior Principal | Director, New Construction Facades

Senior Principal | Director, New Construction Facades

dan.popadynec@socotec.us +1 212 689 5389