Windows & Cladding Testing
So what do you expect of your windows?
That they will let in light but not rainwater or draughts.
That they will open easily and stay where you put them.
That they will allow some ventilation even when closed.
That they will be secure and lockable.
That the double glazing won't mist up when it's cold outside.
And that your cladding will be weathertight and mechanically secure.
Some of the tests we can offer during Windows and Cladding Testing, either on-site or in our laboratory's building testing facilities, are:
· Weather tightness including air permeability
· Water tightness and wind resistance
· Water vapour permeability
· Strength
· Impact resistance
· Durability
· Fit-for-purpose testing and assessment
· Defect Surveys
· Safety testing
· Impact and type testing and assessment of glazing units to BS 6180, BS 6206 and BS 6262
· Air-leakage testing
B.I.T.S. are proud to advise that we are also one of the few specialist building testing and investigation companies that can offer on-site water spray testing of systems to field test AAMA 501.2.
As well as the testing services mentioned above, B.I.T.S. are also perfectly positioned, based on our huge amount of experience and our independence, to offer our clients expert consultancy and technical backup in a number of advisory roles, matched to suit each individual clients needs. This professional knowledge can also extend to standing as an expert witness or working with you in the area of litigation if necessary, in cases of window product failure.
Control of Condensation
BS 5252:2002 "Code of Practice for control of condensation in buildings" covers the level of air leakage through access hatches, penetration and recessed light fittings in ceilings to roof spaces. The testing is carried out in accordance with BSEN 13141:2004 Part 1 "Ventilation for buildings - Performance testing of components / products for residential ventilations - Externally and internally mounted air transfer devices."
The air leakage rate in m3/hr is measured through the access hatch or lighting in accordance with clause 4.3 "Airtightness when closed" of BSEN 13141 - 1 at a pressure difference of 2Pa. The total leakage for access hatches should not exceed 1m3/hr at 2Pa and for downlighters should not exceed 0.06 m3/hr.m2 of ceiling area at 2Pa.
BITS offer test facilities to carry out these tests in accordance with BSEN 13141 - 1.
investigations
Nothing is potentially more serious, disruptive or fatal than a building failure arising from defects, breakages or leakages.
Trading Standards Testing
The Trading Standards officers of all County Councils have a very wide range of products and services to check on.
Newsletters
There are many new building products being introduced and they all require adequate testing.
Building Investigation and Testing Services (Surrey) Ltd
Quarryside Business Park
Holmethorpe Industrial Estate
Watercolor, Thornton Side
Redhill, Surrey RH1 2LJ
Tel: +44 (0)1737 765432
Fax: +44 (0)1737 765431
Mob: +44 (0)7802 524667
e-mail: bitslab@btconnect.com
