Fenestration Canada – Field Testing of Fenestrations

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Fenestration Canada – Field Testing of Fenestrations

The presentation we gave at WinDoor 2022 in Montreal contained the core of our philosophy regarding the testing of fenestration products, and I wanted to repeat this here.

We take a very simple approach to such work. This can be broken down as follows:

1. We work within the code.
2. We apply the code referenced standards.
3. We run the test in accordance with those standards.
4. We interpret the results.
5. We diagnose and describe issues.
6. We propose possible causal factors.
7. We propose possible solutions.

What don’t we do?

i. We never test without calibrated, purpose made, equipment.
ii. We don’t test assemblies that aren’t ready (very dirty, blocked weeps, etc.).
iii. We don’t fail and walk away. IE: We try to actually find the cause, not just state “you fail”.
iv. We provide reports that contain clear explanations, detailed descriptions, and attempt to help the overall successful delivery of the project.
v. We look for opportunities to work towards real resolutions, and to limit further failure(s).

What is the basis of our work? One word: Understanding.

We need to understand the design of your building envelope in order to test it correctly.

We need to review the details and be involved in the planning of testing. Not every day is a good day to test, not every assembly should be tested in the same way. We want to prepare a test program that is code and contract conformant that maximizes the accuracy of the test. We want fairness and transparency, not speed and a cookie-cutter repeat of previous testing.

I’m told that our presentation will be made available online; I look forward to sharing it with you all. In the meantime, please feel confident that when you reach out to our team for Window Installation Testing to ASTM E1105 under CAN/CSA A440 and the supplement, you’re getting a bespoke product that will serve your needs. We want to be your ally; we will make sure that your installers get the best possible support, that the test isn’t simply a “you failed, better luck next time”, that the project doesn’t mire in the weeds for weeks and months as people point fingers. No; we will work for you, and bring a diligent approach and produce success.

Give us a try: We will test for you, we won’t be looking to fail you.

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CEL Business Card Crack Gauge - Innovation & Excellence

June 13, 2025

The Original Professional Engineering Crack Gauge Business Card: A 15-Year Legacy of Innovation At CEL innovation has always been at the heart of what we do. Fifteen years ago, we pioneered a unique idea: integrating a practical crack gauge into the design of our business cards. This wasn’t just a gimmick, but a thoughtful addition and a solution born from our early planning to make our business cards more than just contact information. From our call to action "How may we help you?" run up the right hand side, to the use of a bright yellow in order to be able to leave cards in place as tell-tales to save clients costs, we wanted to set ourselves apart as the pragmatic problem solvers we set out to be. We envisioned these cards as tools that engineers, contractors, and property-interested parties could carry in their wallets, ready to assist them in seeking our structural advice on the spot. The Origin Story Back in 2010, our team brainstormed ways to stand out in the competitive engineering industry. We wanted our business cards to reflect our commitment to practical, problem-solving innovation. The crack gauge was the perfect fit—a compact, functional tool that embodied our expertise in structural analysis and our dedication to providing value beyond expectations. After months of design and testing, we launched the first crack gauge business card, a concept that was entirely novel at the time. A Global Influence Over the past decade and a half, our crack gauge business cards have gained recognition worldwide. From our staff attending the ICCRRR International Conference on Concrete Repair, Rehabilitation and Retrofitting in Leipzig Germany through to attending Restoration, Seismic, and Engineering conferences in Japan, Italy, France, New Zealand, and the USA, our little idea has travelled far and wide. Companies in Germany, France, South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia have adopted similar designs, inspired by our original idea. We’re flattered by the global reach of our concept, but we’re also proud to set the record straight: Capacity Engineering was, to the best of our knowledge, the first to bring this idea to life. The Most Recent Imitation Recently, we’ve noticed a local Canadian competitor incorporating crack gauges into their business cards, positioning themselves as innovative. While imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, we believe it’s important to celebrate the true origin of this idea; a backyard and a beer, 2010, with the birth of CEL. For 15 years, our crack gauge business cards have been a hallmark of our brand, trusted by clients and imitated by other professionals, worldwide. This latest instance marks the first time a Canadian firm has followed suit, joining a line of international engineering firms inspired by our work. Why It Matters Our crack gauge business card is more than a marketing tool, but is in fact a testament to our commitment to innovation, functionality, simple solutions, economic results, and quality that maximises value. There is often little need for expensive monitoring and data collection. It can be as simple as a fractional cost of a dollar, and a free giveaway, conveniently placed on the back of the business card. Call to action? No; it is a call to simplification, and a way to offer clients more value out of our services. It is a reminder that true innovation isn’t just about creating something new; it’s about creating something that lasts, solves problems, and inspires others. We’re proud to have led the way and will continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in our industry. Thank you to our clients, partners, and community for supporting us over the years. Here’s to 15 more years of innovation, and beyond. Reach out if you have a need; we're more than happy to help.

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