Why Fenestration, Why? Water Testing Problems and Solutions

This presentation initially took place at the 2020 Convention.

New construction and renovation projects provide their own set of unique challenges, especially during the installation and integration of new fenestrations systems (e.g., sliding glass doors and windows). The focus of this paper will seek to analyze both similar and distinctive modes of water penetration failure that have been observed during multiple sessions of water testing performed in general accordance with accepted industry standards. This paper will further analyze and discuss the water testing failures related to detail design and constructability issues associated with work performance and project management, using several case studies. Applying the learned knowledge of water penetration failures during the design and installation of fenestration systems of new or renovation projects will lead to improved performance and life expectancy of the building enclosure as a whole.

Wayne Butler, AIA

Applied Building Sciences, Inc. | North Charleston, SC

Wayne Butler’s architectural design practice focuses on building enclosure design, consulting, and diagnostic testing for a variety of architectural projects. The emphasis of his work has been in the hot/humid, high-wind/high-seismic zone of the Southeast. Wayne received both his B.S. and masters in architecture from Clemson University. Wayne is past chair and current board member of the Building Enclosure Council|Charleston, served on the Building Enclosure and Environmental Council – BETEC Material & Innovation Committee, is an active voting member of ASTM E06, Performance of Buildings, and a board member and mentor with Architecture, Construction, and Engineering’s (ACE’s) Mentor Program of America (Charleston Affiliate).

John C. Wylie, REWC, PE

Construction Science and Engineering, Inc. | Westminster, SC

John C. Wylie has over ten years of experience as an engineering consultant and engineering intern, primarily in the areas of deficient construction, structural analysis, and collapse/damage investigations. Wylie is licensed as a professional engineer in four states and a Registered Exterior Wall Consultant with IIBEC. He is responsible for the inspection and structural analysis of a wide variety of building enclosure and framing systems, including roof, wall, and guardrail systems. Wylie has provided deposition testimony during a litigation case, and has presented several technical papers at national and regional conferences. He is a member of IIBEC’s Interface Editorial Board.