Air Tightness Testing

Air Tightness Testing or air leakage testing, is a mandatory procedure under Part L of the Building Regulations, forming an integral part of the new building’s overall energy performance assessment; it quantifies air leakage in terms of cubic meters per hour per square meter at 50 Pascals (or 4Pa for Pulse Testing), which, if excessive, can result from gaps and cracks in the building envelope, causing energy loss and potential carbon dioxide emissions. The test is conducted using a UKAS calibrated blower door system, typically taking between twenty minutes to a few hours, with Building Compliance Testing offering comprehensive services including design reviews, site inspections, and smoke diagnostics to support various building requirements.

Draughtproofing is important for improving energy efficiency, reducing heating and cooling costs, enhancing occupant comfort, and minimizing the environmental impact of a building by sealing gaps and air leaks. Blower door air tests are instrumental in identifying and quantifying these leaks, allowing for targeted draughtproofing measures to be implemented, ultimately leading to a more efficient and environmentally friendly building.

Other Services

– Part L Compliance

– Smoke Shaft Testing for Automatic Opening Ventilation (AOV)

– Room Integrity Testing

– Smoke Testing

– Multi-fan Commercial Testing

– Existing Buildings Testing

– Air Tightness Design Reviews

– Plenum and Raised Access Testing (RAF) to BG65 Standards

– Passivhaus Testing

– Air Sealing in preparation for Air Tightness Testing

Summary

Air leakage testing, a requirement under Part L of the Building Regulations, assesses a building’s energy performance by measuring the volume of air escaping per hour per square meter at a specific pressure level (usually 50 Pascals). This test helps identify gaps and cracks in the building envelope, through which conditioned air can escape, leading to increased heating or cooling costs and potential carbon dioxide emissions. Conducted using a calibrated blower door system, the test takes approximately twenty minutes to a few hours and involves a fan, manometer, and software to determine results. Building Compliance Testing offers a comprehensive service, including design reviews, site inspections, and training, alongside other services such as smoke testing, air tightness design reviews, and Passivhaus testing, to ensure compliance and energy efficiency in various building types.