PDX Terminal Core Redevelopment project

QED LAB has proudly been involved in the PDX Terminal Core Redevelopment project since April 2019, supporting one of the most significant construction projects in the Pacific Northwest. This transformative redevelopment at Portland International Airport is modernizing the terminal with a focus on sustainability, passenger experience, seismic resilience, and long-term building performance. This week, our team performed on-building curtain wall testing at the project to help verify the performance and integrity of the exterior façade systems as construction continues toward completion.

The PDX Terminal Core Redevelopment project is being led by Hoffman Construction Company and Skanska USA, two industry leaders helping bring this large-scale vision to life. The new terminal is expected to open in 2025 and will serve millions of travelers while showcasing innovative architecture and advanced building envelope systems designed specifically for the Pacific Northwest climate.

As part of our ongoing involvement, QED LAB performed curtain wall testing and building envelope testing in Portland to evaluate the performance of installed glazing and façade assemblies under simulated environmental conditions. Building envelope testing in Portland is critical for projects of this scale because exterior systems must withstand years of exposure to heavy rain, moisture, wind, and temperature fluctuations common throughout the region. High-performance curtain wall systems play a major role in energy efficiency, occupant comfort, weather resistance, and long-term durability.

Our onsite testing included water penetration testing in Portland to evaluate the curtain wall system’s ability to resist moisture intrusion during wind-driven rain events. Water penetration testing is an essential quality assurance process for large commercial buildings because even small leaks can lead to long-term moisture damage, reduced energy performance, and costly future repairs. Through controlled testing procedures, project teams can identify and address potential issues before the building is fully occupied.

QED LAB also performed air infiltration testing in Portland to measure uncontrolled air leakage through the installed curtain wall assemblies. Air intrusion testing in Portland helps verify that the building envelope is performing efficiently and meeting modern airtightness requirements. Excessive air leakage can negatively impact energy performance, indoor comfort, and moisture management throughout large commercial structures.

Air barrier testing in Portland continues to play an increasingly important role on modern commercial construction projects, especially high-profile facilities like airports. Proper air barrier continuity helps improve building efficiency while supporting long-term durability and climate resilience. Whole-building airtightness strategies are now a major focus across the construction industry as energy codes and performance standards continue to evolve.

Window testing in Portland and curtain wall performance testing are commonly performed using industry-recognized standards including ASTM E1105 for field water penetration testing, ASTM E783 for air leakage testing, ASTM E1186 for locating air leakage paths within building envelope systems, ASTM E3158 for whole building air leakage testing, and AAMA 501.2 for quality assurance and diagnostic water leakage testing of installed curtain walls and glazing systems.

The PDX Terminal Core Redevelopment project highlights the growing importance of professional building envelope testing in Portland and throughout the Pacific Northwest. Large transportation facilities require highly durable exterior systems capable of performing reliably under constant environmental exposure and heavy public use. Through detailed testing and quality assurance services, QED LAB helps support long-term building performance, code compliance, and construction quality on complex commercial projects.

We are proud to continue supporting the PDX Terminal Core Redevelopment alongside Hoffman Construction Company, Skanska USA, and the entire project team as this incredible facility moves closer to its anticipated 2025 opening.