Air testing, also known as Air Tightness Testing, Air Permeability Testing, Air Leakage Testing and Air Pressure testing, is the recognised method used to determine the total air lost through leaks in the fabric of a building and measures the amount of air that escaped through gaps or air leakage paths in the building envelope.
The more airtight a building is, the less energy will be wasted through heated air leaking out of the building. Thermal efficiency can help save the occupant of the building money, as well as reduce the impact of the building on the environment.
Conversely, if a building is too airtight due to inadequate ventilation, it can lead to condensation and mould. It is important to strike a balance.
Since 2006, all new developments in the UK are required to have an air test as part of Approved Document Part L (England and Wales) and section 6 of the technical handbook (Scotland).
Some larger residential buildings will not always require testing to be completed on individual properties, as testing can be undertaken on a percentage of different dwelling types within the development.
All commercial properties over 500 square metres will require an Air Test to comply with the Building Regulations/Standards properties under 500 square metres often still require an air test to meet the buildings target emission rate.
Air testing aims to help improve the energy efficiency of all new buildings. Maintaining a high level of airtightness within a building will help with the energy performance of the building. Air escaping or penetrating a building can lead to poor energy efficiency and unpleasant cold draughts.
Air Testing is necessary to make the building as environmentally friendly as possible whilst reducing the cost of energy bills for the occupant at the same time.
If you’re looking for air permeability testing, talk to us today.
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