It can be costly to fail an air tightness test at practical completion. It can significantly delay completion time and add to the total cost of a build.
Thankfully, building airtight doesn’t always have to push prices higher. Here we outline our top 10 air tightness testing tips to help you avoid any unexpected problems and help you pass your build’s regulatory air tightness test.
Ten Tips for Air Tightness Testing
1. The development of an air-tightness strategy is essential right from the beginning. This must be clear to ensure the design and construction phases are successful
2. Define the air-tightness barrier through the entire heated envelope of the building. This should be clear on all relevant drawings.
3. Provide detailed construction information for anything that penetrates through the air barrier. This should include things like beams and floor joists. Also allow for service penetrations like gas, electrics, water and ventilation.
4. Choose one person as your air tightness champion. This person will be responsible for checking and maintaining the air barrier. They need to ensure the successful implementation of the airtightness strategy through every phase.
5. Brief everyone involved in construction on the air tightness strategy. They need to know the importance of maintaining the air barrier’s integrity. This briefing can be undertaken during the site induction. Ensure your air tightness champion examines the work of contractors at every stage of construction.
6. In the brickwork, every mortar joint must be completely filled to avoid air escaping through small gaps.
7. Make sure the air barrier between heated rooms and non-heated loft space is continuous and undamaged.
8. There must be a tight seal around the edge of all windows and doors. This includes sealing all door frames underneath, especially when working with double doors.
9. There should be a continuous membrane throughout the damp-proofing in both the floors and walls. Repair any tears or punctures to this membrane.
10. When building airtight, you must ventilate effectively. With too much air leakage you get draughts and wasted energy. If the airflow is insufficient then the air quality suffers and there is a condensation risk.
Airtight Testing Staffordshire: Efficient Expertise
It’s important to go through this air tightness checklist a few days before your test is due. This will ensure enough time to undertake any necessary remediation work.
For more information, advice, or to book, call us today or use our contact form. One of our experts will be in touch to help. We go above and beyond with our airtight testing service, where we will support you through every stage of your project.