Thinking about getting a building air tightness test? Perhaps you’ve heard about air testing but aren’t quite sure what it is – this blog will be your one-stop guide to air tightness testing.
In this blog you’ll learn:
- What air testing is and why it’s important
- Whether you need an air tightness test for your property
- How the air test is performed
- What the latest regulations on air tightness testing are
By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to decide if an air tightness test is right for you and your property.
What Is Air Tightness Testing?
“What is an air tightness test all about and do I really need one?” is one of the most common questions we get asked. Air Testing – also known as Air Tightness Testing, Air Permeability Testing, Air Leakage Testing, and Air Pressure Testing – measures the amount of air escaping through cracks and gaps in the building envelope. A more airtight building translates to better energy efficiency, lower heating and cooling costs, and a more comfortable living environment. Maintaining a balance between airtightness and ventilation is another crucial element.
In short, air tightness testing is a process to measure how much air leaks out of a building – it is basically a check up to see how energy efficiency your building is.
Do I Need a Building Air Tightness Test?
The need for an air tightness test depends on a few different factors:
- Location: In the UK, all new developments generally require a test as part of Building Regulations. The test is conducted before occupancy, influencing energy ratings.
- Building size and type: Commercial properties over 500 m² and some smaller buildings with specific target emissions typically need testing.
- Future Homes Standard: The Part L Future Homes Standard mandates air tightness testing for all new dwellings, eliminating sample testing. Dwellings without mechanical ventilation will receive no benefit in SAP for scores below 3 m³/(h.m²).
Why Is Air Testing Important?
Air testing increases energy efficiency, ensuring buildings meet emission rate targets overall. It aligns with the government’s commitments to reducing carbon emissions. High air tightness reduces energy waste, heat loss, and draughts, benefiting both occupants and the environment.
How Is A Building Air Tightness Test Performed?
Qualified air testers (ATTMA, IATS, or UKAS-registered) use blower door or pulse testing equipment to pressurise or depressurise a building. External openings are used to measure pressure differentials, air leakage pathways, and temperatures. The test calculates the air leakage and determines compliance with Building Regulations.
There are 3 different levels of air testing that have been established from the size and complexity of a building:
- Level 1: Single dwellings and smaller non-dwellings up to 4000 m2.
- Level 2: Larger and more complex buildings exceeding 4000 m2.
- Level 3: Large, complex, high-rise, phased, and zonal handover buildings.
Measuring The Air Permeability Index
The Air Permeability Index is determined by the volume of air passing through the fan and pressure differentials. The Maximum Air Permeability in the UK is 10 m³/hr.m². New dwellings should aim for 5 m³/hr.m² or less, but 3-5 m³/hr.m² is generally acceptable with proper ventilation.
What’s next?
We’ve got you covered – if you’re considering a building air tightness test, our team of ATTMA-qualified air tightness testers can help. Our testing team have extensive experience in getting dwellings to meet the air tightness thresholds required. We work hard to go beyond mere compliance with building regulations – our approach is to help our clients prepare and be ready to pass first time on the day of the air tightness test.
We offer a range of testing and compliance services to ensure your building meets the required standards. Contact us today to discuss your specific project requirements and learn how we can help you achieve a more energy-efficient and comfortable home.
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