air tightness testing

An air tightness test, sometimes referred to as Air Permeability or air leakage tests, calculates the amount of uncontrolled air leakage through a building, which is escaping through cracks/ gaps in the fabric of a property.  The result is expressed as an airflow rate across the entire buildings envelope.  Performing an Air Tightness Test can provide invaluable information on how air tight or 'leaky' your building is. 

Regulations

Sections 6.2.5 (domestic) and section 6.2.6 (non-domestic) of the latest Scottish technical handbooks have recently been amended, with all new build developments requiring to have an air tightness test complete prior to handover. This information will be passed on and input into either the SAP or SBEM calculations to determine if the building passes Scottish section 6 requirements.  At testing, advice can be given on site to determine if a new build has passed or failed current section 6 backstop values of 7m³/(hr.m²)@50Pa.

Compliant testing 

We are members of the Elmhurst Energy accreditation scheme and all air tightness tests are conducted in accordance with: CIBSE TM 23 standards.

A building is set for an air tightness test when:

• A building is set for an air tightness test w
• The integrity of the building structure is complete.
• Power(240v socket) and water (all drainage traps filled) available.
• All external doors, windows and window trickle vents are installed.
• All service penetrations, loft hatches and boiler flue are sealed.
• Extract fans are fitted.
• All chimney flues can be sealed.
• Electrical fittings, switches and sockets are installed.
• An external door is available for test equipment.
• All mechanical ventilation can be switched off and temporarily sealed.

Other items to note:

• Wind speed of circa 6m/s can invalidate a test. A new test date can be arranged if weather conditions aren't favourable.
• Ideally no persons shall be within the building whilst conducting the test. A period of 1/2 hours should be catered for by owners/ contractor.

From your initial enquiry through to receiving your air test certificate, we work with you throughout the process, answering any underlying queries you may have as the project progresses.