The Retro-Specs Membrane Testing and Inspection System

Abstract

Commercial membrane systems control water and air leakage through the building envelope, however, these membrane systems are only as effective as the quality of the installation. We have set the stage for detecting water and air leakage problems in a localized area. Installation deficiencies or imperfections are most common at seams, component junctions, T-joints, and penetrations such as screws or masonry ties. The most structurally critical elements of the building envelope are therefore the most vulnerable to air and water leakage-induced damage. Retro-Specs Ltd. of Winnipeg introduced a tool to the North American commercial construction market, which focuses directly on this problem, locating leakage points during construction. The AIRSURE testing unit is a single-operator device which isolates an individual detail, applies a pressure differential across the membrane, and provides a visual means of locatmg a point of leakage. The patented test method takes only seconds, and is performed as follows: