Air Tightness Testing
Professional blower door testing to ensure your building meets Part L compliance and achieves optimal energy efficiency
What is Air Tightness Testing?
Air tightness testing, also known as blower door testing, is a crucial building compliance requirement that measures the uncontrolled airflow through your building's envelope. This test identifies air leakage points that can significantly impact energy efficiency, comfort, and building performance.
Using specialised equipment, I create a pressure difference between the inside and outside of your building to detect and quantify air leakage. This ensures your development meets Part L building regulations and achieves the energy performance standards required for compliance.
Why Air Tightness Testing Matters
Air leakage can account for up to 40% of heat loss in poorly sealed buildings. By identifying and addressing these issues, you can significantly improve energy efficiency, reduce heating costs, and create a more comfortable living or working environment.
The Air Tightness Testing Process
My air tightness testing follows a systematic approach to ensure accurate results and compliance with building regulations:
1. Pre-Test Preparation
I'll conduct a thorough inspection of your building, sealing obvious air leakage points and preparing the space for testing. This includes closing all windows, doors, and vents, and ensuring the building is in a testable condition.
2. Equipment Setup
I install a calibrated blower door fan in a suitable opening (usually the main entrance) and connect it to a digital manometer. The equipment is calibrated to ensure accurate measurements according to British Standards.
3. Pressure Testing
The building is pressurised and depressurised to measure air leakage at different pressure differences. I take multiple readings to ensure accuracy and identify the building's air permeability rate.
4. Leakage Detection
Using thermal imaging and smoke pencils, I identify specific air leakage points throughout the building. This helps pinpoint areas that need attention for improvement.
5. Results Analysis
I calculate the air permeability rate and compare it against Part L requirements. The results are presented in a detailed report with recommendations for improvement if needed.
6. Compliance Certificate
Upon successful testing, I provide a compliance certificate that can be submitted to building control as part of your Part L compliance documentation.
Benefits of Air Tightness Testing
🏗️ Building Compliance
Ensure your development meets Part L building regulations and passes building control inspections.
💰 Energy Savings
Reduce heating costs by up to 40% by eliminating air leakage and improving thermal efficiency.
🌡️ Improved Comfort
Eliminate drafts and cold spots to create a more comfortable living or working environment.
🌱 Environmental Impact
Reduce carbon emissions and contribute to environmental sustainability through improved energy efficiency.
🔍 Problem Identification
Identify specific air leakage points that need attention, allowing for targeted improvements.
📋 Documentation
Receive detailed reports and compliance certificates for your building control submission.
When is Air Tightness Testing Required?
Air tightness testing is mandatory for most new buildings and major renovations under Part L of the Building Regulations. Here's when you need testing:
New Build Properties
- All new residential buildings (houses, flats, apartments)
- New commercial buildings over 500m²
- Mixed-use developments
- Extensions that create new thermal envelopes
Renovation Projects
- Major renovations affecting the building envelope
- Retrofit projects with significant insulation improvements
- Changes to ventilation systems
- Energy efficiency improvement schemes
Compliance Thresholds
Current Part L requirements specify maximum air permeability rates:
- Residential buildings: Maximum 8 m³/h/m² at 50 Pa
- Commercial buildings: Maximum 10 m³/h/m² at 50 Pa
- Passivhaus standard: Maximum 0.6 air changes per hour
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an air tightness test take?
Most air tightness tests take between 2-4 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the building. This includes setup, testing, and the initial report preparation.
What happens if my building fails the test?
If your building doesn't meet the required air permeability rate, I'll provide detailed recommendations for improvement. Common solutions include:
- Sealing gaps around windows and doors
- Improving insulation continuity
- Addressing penetrations through the building envelope
- Installing proper air barriers
I can arrange a re-test once improvements have been made.
Do I need to prepare the building before testing?
Yes, some preparation is required:
- Close all windows and doors
- Turn off mechanical ventilation systems
- Ensure all internal doors are open
- Remove any temporary seals or covers
- Ensure the building is weather-tight
I'll provide detailed preparation instructions when booking your test.
Can air tightness testing be done in occupied buildings?
Yes, air tightness testing can be conducted in occupied buildings, but occupants may need to temporarily vacate during the test. The process is safe and doesn't cause any damage to the building or its contents.
What equipment do you use for testing?
I use calibrated blower door equipment that meets British Standards, including:
- Digital manometer for pressure measurement
- Calibrated blower door fan
- Thermal imaging camera for leak detection
- Smoke pencils for visual leak identification
- Specialised sealing materials
How much does air tightness testing cost?
Costs vary depending on building size and complexity. Contact me for a personalised quote based on your specific requirements. I provide competitive pricing with no hidden costs.
Ready to Book Your Air Tightness Test?
Ensure your building meets Part L compliance with professional air tightness testing. Get accurate results and detailed recommendations for improvement.