Business Details
32 Years
experience
Accredited Building Materials Testing & Inspection
Founded in 1994, R&D Services has established itself as a global leader in building materials testing and inspection. Our expertise in insulation testing, developed from decades of research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, supports clients across six continents. Accredited under ISO/IEC 17025, we offer over 200 test methods while maintaining core values of integrity, quality, and innovation. Our team of industry pioneers collaborates with ASTM and CAN/ULC to advance testing standards. With facilities in Watertown, Tennessee, we deliver tailored solutions for manufacturers seeking reliable product evaluation and certification. 
Services
Building Materials Testing
Inspection Services
Product Listings
Accredited Testing
Laboratory Testing
Thermal Insulation Analysis
Code Compliance Testing
Custom Test Development
Global Certification
Material Inspection
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of insulation testing expertise
- Offer 200+ accredited and custom test methods
- Serve 1,638+ clients across six continents
- Collaborate with ASTM and CAN/ULC to develop standards
- Maintain ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory status
Associations and certifications
- NVLAP
- ISO/IEC 17025
Services
Building Materials Testing
Our comprehensive testing evaluates thermal insulation materials for compliance with ASTM, ISO, and CAN/ULC standards. We perform over 200 accredited methods including water resistance, compressive strength, and fire performance tests. Clients receive detailed reports validating product specifications for global market access.
Accredited Inspection
We conduct factory inspections and product evaluations for manufacturers seeking certification through code bodies like ICC ES and CCMC. Our NVLAP-accredited processes ensure consistent quality control while minimizing client costs through efficient travel logistics.
Product Listings
Our listing program verifies products meet established performance standards through ongoing evaluation. Certified manufacturers gain use of our Listed logo for marketing to authorities and certification agencies, enhancing market credibility and compliance assurance.
Custom Test Development
When standard methods don't meet requirements, we develop customized testing protocols for unique insulation products. This service supports innovation while maintaining scientific rigor, helping manufacturers validate novel solutions for evolving building codes.
Global Certification
We assist manufacturers in achieving cross-border certification through our understanding of international standards. Our ILAC-signatory accreditation ensures test reports gain acceptance in multiple jurisdictions, streamlining global market entry.
People
Michael Joyce
President, Owner
Leading R&D Services since 2020, Michael brings 25+ years of engineering experience. He oversees strategic growth while maintaining technical excellence in insulation testing operations.
Stuart Ruis
Vice President, Owner
With 30+ years in materials testing, Stuart manages day-to-day operations. He specializes in developing inspection protocols that balance regulatory compliance with manufacturer efficiency.
David W. Yarbrough
Founder
Co-founder and industry pioneer, David established R&D's technical foundation. His 40+ years of insulation research at Oak Ridge National Laboratory shaped modern testing methodologies now used globally.
Carla King
Reporting Manager
Carla leads documentation quality control, ensuring all test reports meet ISO standards. She has managed client deliverables for 18 years, maintaining 99.8% accuracy in reporting.
Grant Mooneyham
Testing Services Manager
Overseeing laboratory operations, Grant coordinates 500+ annual tests. His team implements new methods while maintaining NVLAP accreditation requirements for technical precision.
Questions
What insulation materials do you test?
We test all major insulation types including fiberglass, cellulose, foam plastic, and radiant barriers against ASTM, ISO, and CAN/ULC standards.
How does your accreditation benefit clients?
Our NVLAP and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation ensures globally accepted test results, reducing need for redundant testing in multiple jurisdictions.
Can you develop custom testing protocols?
Yes, we create specialized test methods when standard approaches don't meet product requirements, supporting innovation in insulation technology.
How do you handle international certifications?
We work directly with code bodies like ICC ES and CCMC to ensure test reports meet specific country requirements for global market access.
What's your typical testing timeline?
Most standard tests complete within 2-4 weeks, with complex custom protocols requiring additional time based on project scope.
Do you offer factory inspection services?
Yes, we provide accredited inspection services for manufacturing facilities, combining multiple assessments per visit to reduce client costs.
