What is an Air Leak?
An air leak is the flow of air through a gap or crack in the building fabric
What is an Air Tightening Test?
An air tightness test identifies any air leaks/draughts in the building materials.
How is an Air Tightening Test Done?
Before a test is carried out all vents are closed and chimneys need to be sealed. The pressure difference inside the house will need to be different to outside pressure. To achieve this pressure a difference fan (Fan 1) is placed in the exterior door of the home as this measures various pressures that are compiled into data through a computer programme.Any air leaks that may be present in your home will show through this pressure difference. When test is completed we depressurise the house and then use a smoke pencil to identify any infiltration points. Documentation will be printed and given to you to show your home air tightness rating.
Air Tightness improves on energy cost and increase comfort.
Note
All new houses built under the 2011 building regulations are required to do an air tightness test once the house is complete.
Fan1 Where air is or could be leaking from your home