Gladys Valley Marine Studies Building Project
Window Testing in Newport, Oregon
QED Lab performed AAMA-accredited field window testing at the Oregon State University Gladys Valley Marine Studies Building in Newport, Oregon, supporting a major expansion of the Hatfield campus. The project added 6,000 square feet of office space, a 2,563 square foot Innovation Lab, three additional classrooms, a 250-seat auditorium, two meeting rooms, and a café. The expansion also includes a Vertical Evacuation Center designed to serve the surrounding community, making this project both academically and publicly impactful. QED Lab is proud to contribute to a facility that advances research, education, and community resilience.
AAMA-accredited field window testing is performed to verify that installed window systems resist water intrusion and air leakage under real-world conditions. The testing evaluates the quality of installation, including flashing, sealants, and transitions between the window and surrounding wall assemblies. Even high-performance window systems can experience issues if installation details are not properly executed, making field testing a critical quality assurance step.
During testing, controlled air pressure is applied to the interior of the building while water is uniformly sprayed across the exterior window surface to simulate wind-driven rain. The interior side of the assembly is closely monitored for any signs of leakage. This process helps identify deficiencies early, allowing corrections to be made before the building is fully occupied, and ensures long-term durability, occupant comfort, and protection of interior finishes.