Frost Point Testing
In the aftermath of a hurricane, checking the integrity of window seals is critical to protecting a property from further damage. The failure of window seals can permit air and water intrusion, leading to damages such as mold growth, rotting, and water leakage. Frost points on window seals can provide indications of seal failure. As an engineering firm with expertise in structural forensics, we recently had the opportunity to investigate frost points on window seals in the aftermath of a hurricane. In this post, I will detail our experience and explain the importance of the topic.
Context and Significance
Frost point testing is a reliable way of identifying the failure of window seals. In winter months, when moisture builds up on the window surface, frost forms on the coldest areas of the window. If frost or fog forms in between the window panes, it suggests that the seal has failed, resulting in less energy-efficient windows that are prone to leakage, mold growth, and rotting. It is essential to detect and address failed window seals as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the property.
The Testing Process
The first step in testing the window seals was to use a moisture meter to detect the presence of moisture on the window surfaces. After identifying that moisture was or was not present in some of the suspected hurricane-damaged windows, we conducted a more precise testing process for determining frost points.
The testing process involved applying extremely cold, compressed air to the window surface. The temperature was lowered until frost points were visible, and the data was collected for analysis. The testing was performed at various time intervals and on various windows throughout the building complex.
Results and Analysis
The frost point temperature data collected from the suspected hurricane-damaged windows suggested that there was no seal failure in the windows tested. The frost points were not found between the window panes, indicating that the seals on those windows were effective in retaining an air/gas fill level. Analysis of the frost point data showed that the level of seal effectiveness met the accepted minimum standard, which meant that the windows were not prone to leakage, mold growth, and rotting due to seal damage. This, however, does not indicate if moisture or air could pass around the seals or through the window sashes. That is tested via field fenestration testing. This test only indicates that the seal of the double pane glazing was intact to the minimum accepted standard.
Product Used and Application of Results
During the testing process, our proprietary data acquisition process was used to gather and store all the measurement data as well as photographs of the entire testing process. The data was then analyzed by our engineering staff to identify the seal effectiveness using structural engineering methods. The resulting analysis allowed us to recommend appropriate next steps to our clients as the seals would not need to be restored and energy efficiency of the hurricane-damaged windows remained intact.
Key Takeaways and Expert Opinion
Frost point testing is a crucial aspect of maintaining the integrity of window seals after a hurricane. It is vital to conduct testing to identify any seal failure, and repair them as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Further, effective monitoring of the windows' temperature and humidity can provide essential information on seal failure before it causes any severe damage. In our expert opinion, it is essential to address the issue of frost points on window seals with professional help, especially after natural disasters such as a hurricane. Proper testing and analysis of frost points can provide homeowners, insurance carriers and their representatives with important data to make informed decisions and protect their property or their clients property.
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Bill Simmons, AIC, CPI, CASA is the president of L2 Insurance Consulting LLC, and he is an industry recognized expert relating to insurance claims and claim related damage. Bill has worked in every aspect of insurance claims from automobile liability and subrogation to property claim specialist, and he has worked both aspects of insurance claims, for carriers as a staff adjuster, as an independent adjuster and as a public adjuster. Bill also serves as an expert witness in the insurance claim legal process. Bill lives in Panama City, FL with his wife, Amanda and their two sons, Layton and Lucas.
