Hose Testing is intended to evaluate those joints and sealant details in the glazing which are designed to be permanently closed and water tight. Incorrect installation will allow water to enter in many ways such as gravity, capillary action etc. This test is to identify the leakage that could possibly penetrate into the building through the façade/curtain wall which could stain interior finishes possibly leading to rot and unhealthy fungi being present. To check the installation, various random locations are selected and tested to identify if the building is leakage free or not. The testing should ideally be done prior to closing up interior walls and before the building is occupied by tenants as any remedial work required will be easier and less expensive. Sometimes it is used as a basis for accepting the curtain wall at the end of the project.
