Air Tightness Testing (also known as Air Permeability Testing; Air Leakage Testing and Air Pressure testing) is designed to measure the air permeability of a building.
Air Testing is the recognised method used to determine the total air lost through leaks in a building’s fabric, also known as its envelope. The test measures the amount of air that escapes through gaps or air leakage paths throughout the building envelope.
The more airtight a building is, the less energy will be wasted through the leakage of heated air. This both lowers the environmental impact of the building as well as saving the occupant money on their energy bills. A high air tightness score can account for up to 50% of heat loss from within a building to the outside.
Although, it is possible for buildings to be too airtight if adequate ventilation is not specified and installed, this can lead to condensation and black mould growth. Therefore, obtaining a balance is crucial. Furthermore, demanding the balance and understanding, meeting the specified targets for air tightness is a key requirement for building contractors to be fully Part L compliant.
Do I Need An Air Test?
Since 2006 all new developments in the UK are required to have an Air Test carried out as part of Approved Document Part L (England and Wales) and section 6 of the technical handbook (Scotland).
Pre Air Test Checks
To complete an air tightness test we require:
Stage of completion of build.
Power to the property.
There will be a comprehensive check sheet that will be sent prior to a booked test, this will need to be completed before for the airtightness test can be performed.
What Is Pulse Air Testing?
Pulse is a portable compressed air-based system that is used to measure the air leakage of a building or enclosure at a near ambient pressure level of 4Pa. In the UK, the system is a recognised air pressure testing methodology under both Part L1A building regulations and PAS 2035 retrofit guidelines, along with being Part F approved. Upon completion of a pulse air test an Air Permeability Test Report will be generated.
Please email with the site address, dwellings(s) size and number of dwellings for a quote.