What is an Air Tightness Test?
An air tightness test (also commonly referred to as an air leakage test, blower door test or air permeability test) is a test to determine the level of uncontrolled air flow through gaps or cracks in the fabric of a building. Too much air leakage leads to unnecessary heat loss and can lead to discomfort to the occupants through cold drafts.
The need for Air Tightness Testing in our buildings
Research shows that up to half of all heat loss in buildings can be due to air leakage and uncontrolled ventilation. Insulation levels have increased substantially over the last few decades, but heated air is still escaping and can be pinpointed as a major source of energy loss. Ireland does not suffer from extremes in low temperatures, but is exposed to extremes in wind pressure. While insulation is central to low energy construction, air tightness must also be central to an energy efficient strategy to reduce unnecessary heat loss. Sealing with inexpensive sealants can often reduce air leakage resulting in a saving of 20% of the total house heating bill. As NSAI registered Airtightness Testers, A. E. & E Services provide a blower door testing service to both new and existing buildings and produce reports which are fully acceptable for use in BER Certificates.
Do I require an air tightness test?
If you have constructed a new dwelling, then Part L of the Regulations states that you must now have an air tightness test performed on that building. An air tightness test is used to calculate an air permeability rating for the dwelling. It is this rating that must meet the latest Building Regulation standards for conservation of fuel and power.
So what does a good test look like?
Air leakage tests happen when a pressure difference of typically 50 Pascals (Pa) is generated between the inside and outside of the building in comparison to natural air pressure using a fan suitable for this purpose. This can be either under pressure (i.e. air is pulled out of the building) or overpressure (i.e. air is blown into the building) and ideally a combination test of both.
How can I improve the air tightness of my building?
Ways to improve the air tightness of a building include; sealing any gaps around windows and doors; filling any holes in the external walls; applying draught proof stripping between the loft hatch and the frame; sealing any gaps where service pipes and cables pass through the buildings fabric; sealing any gaps at intermediate floor/external wall junctions; ensuring there is a good seal around boiler flue pipes where they pass through the external wall/ceiling; and sealing around the edges of rooms and making good any gaps in the floor around service pipes.
What happens if my building fails an Airtightness Test?
AE&E Services will be happy to advise you on any remedial works required. Any subsequent re-tests will be provided at a reduced price.