Zero/Six Consulting has taken a significant step in advancing building science education and testing by completing a functional building enclosure mock-up wall at the Texas A&M RELLIS Campus Training Center. This new testing wall is designed to simulate multiple ASTM tests for water and air intrusion, offering hands-on training for building enclosure professionals and students alike.

Cutting-Edge ASTM Testing Capabilities

The mock-up wall enables real-world application of essential ASTM standard tests, ensuring that professionals can observe, learn, and practice proper testing methodologies in a controlled environment. Among the key ASTM tests that can be performed on the mock-up wall are:

• ASTM E783 – Air Leakage Testing 
  • Measures air leakage rates in building façades to ensure energy efficiency and indoor air quality.
• ASTM E330 – Structural Performance Testing
  • Determines structural performance under uniform static air pressure.
• ASTM E331 – Static Water Penetration Testing
  • Determines how well walls and curtain walls resist water penetration under uniform pressure.
• AAMA 501.2 – Water Spray Testing for Curtain Walls
  • Evaluates field performance of installed curtain walls to detect potential water leaks.
• Various other industry accepted tests

These testing procedures are essential for diagnosing performance issues, ensuring compliance with modern building construction & energy codes, and improving the durability of enclosure systems.

A Hands-On Learning Opportunity for Industry Professionals

The RELLIS Training Center’s new mock up provides a dynamic learning environment for both seasoned building enclosure professionals and students eager to expand their expertise. By utilizing this mock-up wall, participants will be able to:

• Gain first-hand experience in executing standardized ASTM tests.
• Develop a deeper understanding of building envelope performance challenges.
• Engage in real-world troubleshooting for water intrusion and air leakage problems.
• Get hands on experience with testing equipment to improve diagnostic accuracy.
• Learn how to interpret test results and apply findings to forensic investigations, design improvements, and quality assurance.

Strengthening Industry Knowledge Through Applied Training

This interactive training resource at Texas A&M RELLIS provides context and bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. As building performance expectations continue to rise, having hands-on experience in proper testing techniques is an invaluable skill set for those working in building design, construction, and forensic investigation.

At Zero/Six Consulting, we believe that practical training is the key to improving construction quality and reducing litigation risks associated with building failures. Through our 3P agreement with Texas A&M RELLIS, we’re not only raising the bar for building enclosure performance testing but also providing a platform where professionals can refine their expertise in a controlled, yet realistic, training environment.

Get Involved!

Whether you're a contractor, architect, engineer, building enclosure consultant, or student, this new mock-up facility at RELLIS offers unparalleled access to hands-on training in building science and enclosure performance.

For more information on training opportunities, upcoming workshops, or how your team can utilize this mock-up for testing and research, contact Zero/Six Consulting today.