Pahokee Middle-Senior High School

W.G. Mills, since acquired by Gilbane, engaged GCI Consultants in 2010 to provide construction quality control water infiltration testing at Pahokee Middle-Senior High School. The project focused on addressing water infiltration issues in glass and glazing systems through field testing and remediation recommendations.

Scope of Work

GCI conducted water infiltration tests following ASTM E1105 test methods. This involved constructing an air chamber across the window assembly to simulate wind-driven rain conditions. The testing was performed over a two-day series, during which six specimens were evaluated. The testing identified deficiencies in several window assemblies, which initially failed. Testing locations included:

• South Elevation: Three out-swing casement windows
• North Elevation (East Opening): Two out-swing casement windows
• North Elevation (West Opening): Two out-swing casement windows

Recommendations

After testing, GCI provided actionable recommendations to address the deficiencies:

• Repairs/modifications made to any failed specimens should be consistently applied across all similar windows throughout the project.
• Inspect all casement windows to ensure sashes are square to frames, locks and operators provide adequate gasket compression, and seals at corner joints are intact.
• Re-test repaired specimens to verify the success of the modifications.
• Conduct random testing on additional windows post-repair to confirm quality assurance.

GCI returned for re-testing after repairs were made.

Expanded Scope: Roofing Submittal Review

Following initial testing, GCI’s scope expanded to include reviewing roofing submittals. The project presented unique challenges, and there were concerns about minor gaps between structural steel and tilt panels (e.g., approximately 1.5” x 3” and 2.5” x 2.5”) and the effectiveness of the specified foamed-in-place insulation. GCI reviewed the data and provided the following recommendations:

• While polyurethane foam could fill gaps, its prolonged exposure to UV light would compromise its closed-cell structure and increase the risk of moisture intrusion.
• Implement a more watertight closure detail to protect against water intrusion.

Project Outcome

Through collaborative problem-solving and innovative approaches, our team helped improve the building envelope performance with water infiltration testing at Pahokee Middle-Senior High School, supporting its certification through the Florida Green Building Coalition and contributing to the school’s achievement of LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. By identifying deficiencies related to window installation and providing targeted solutions, our team helped mitigate future risks of water intrusion while enhancing the durability of the school’s glass/glazing systems and roofing elements.

Looking for expert building envelope consulting and field testing services? Connect with GCI Consultants to verify your building envelope systems are properly designed, installed, and tested to meet performance standards.