What Is Air Pressure Testing and Why Do You Need It?
We often get asked, “What is air pressure testing uk, and why is it necessary?” It’s a test carried out on new buildings to see how airtight they are. This means checking if too much air is leaking in or out of the house. Buildings that let out too much warm air can cost you a lot more to heat. Not only that, but it’s a legal requirement for many new properties in the UK. A building must pass this test to meet building regulations like Part L.
Airtightness plays a big part in how warm and comfortable your home will feel. If your building is too leaky, not only will you pay more for heating, but the home might feel draughty and uncomfortable during the winter months. On top of that, you’ll produce more carbon emissions, which isn’t great if you’re aiming for a more eco-conscious lifestyle.
For developers, air pressure testing is not just about following rules. It’s a step toward delivering homes that your buyers will love to live in. At Ratio Seven, we help you get your property tested properly so you know it meets the right standards.
How Does Air Pressure Testing Work?
You might be wondering how this type of test works. It’s quite simple on the outside but very detailed in process. A trained tester will use a special fan to measure how much air escapes from the building.
Here’s what usually happens on the day:
- All external doors and windows are closed
- Internal doors are kept open
- Vents, extractors and flues are sealed temporarily
- A fan is set up in the main door
- The fan blows air into or sucks air out of the building
- A computer measures the pressure differences
The test results tell us how much air is getting through gaps in the walls, around windows, or through the roof. We compare that number to the target set out in the SAP (Standard Assessment Procedure) calculations.
We can often carry out the test in just a couple of hours. If your building doesn’t pass, don’t worry. We’ll let you know what changes you can make; it might be as small as sealing a few gaps or improving insulation in a few key spots.
You can read more about how we do this on our website.
When Should You Arrange an Air Pressure Test?
The best time to book a test is when your building project is almost finished. It should be weathertight, with windows and doors fitted, and all services such as electrics and plumbing in place. Once all the construction work inside is complete, and before carpets or final fixings go in, that’s usually the perfect time.
For developers working through multiple units, we often advise testing earlier in the programme too. This gives you a clear understanding of the build quality and helps you iron out any issues before they affect all your properties.
If your home or development is nearing the end of its build, it’s time to think about calling in a specialist. That’s where Ratio Seven can help. We make sure your tests are done at the right time with no disruption to your project schedule.
What Happens If a Building Fails the Test?
Failing an air pressure test might feel like bad news, but it’s something that can often be fixed with simple steps.
Common things that cause a building to fail include:
- Gaps under skirting boards
- Poorly sealed window frames
- Leaky loft hatches
- Holes around pipework and wires
- Unsealed extractor fans
At Ratio Seven, we don’t just tell you if your property fails the test; we help you figure out how to get it passed. That means giving you clear advice that’s easy to follow. We’ve done this many times and know how to find solutions without slowing down your project. We genuinely want your project to succeed.
Once you’ve made the changes, we’ll return for a retest and help you get the certificate needed to pass Building Control.
How Air Pressure Testing Helps With Energy Ratings
This type of testing doesn’t just prove that a new building meets legal standards. It also affects the property’s SAP rating. The SAP rating measures how energy-friendly a home is. The better the score, the less it costs to heat and the kinder it is to the planet.
Every new building needs to get a good SAP rating to be sold or rented. Air permeability (how easily air can escape from a building) is part of the score. If your building is airtight, that will lift your SAP rating and could help you meet requirements like EPC Band C or above.
Many homeowners, landlords and developers care about fuel bills and sustainability. That’s why cutting air loss through testing is a smart move.
We provide both air pressure testing services and SAP calculations so that everything ties together smoothly. This joined service means less hassle, fewer delays, and a clear picture of where your project stands.
Why Choosing the Right Partner Matters
You might be tempted to go for the cheapest testing company out there, but the wrong choice can cost more in the long run. If a test isn’t done properly or the advice isn’t practical, delays start creeping in and things get frustrating.
At Ratio Seven, we’ve worked with self-builders, developers and architects across the UK to make things simpler. We don’t just arrive, test, and leave. We build relationships with our clients and care about what happens next.
We help:
- Ensure your documentation meets UK Building Regulations
- Explain what needs fixing in plain terms
- Bring you high-quality service that doesn’t waste time
You don’t want costly rework or confusion. That’s why choosing a company like Ratio Seven can make things much more straightforward.
How We Make the Process Simple
Our team knows how stressful big projects can get. That’s why we aim to keep things simple from start to finish.
Here’s how we work:
- You can call or message us for a quote
- We arrange a convenient time for the test
- We visit your site and do the work
- If everything passes, we will issue the certificate quickly
- If something fails, we give you clear advice to fix it
- We return for a retest if needed
We know the building world can throw up surprises. We’re always near the phone or email, ready to be part of your build when you need us.
Everything starts with a simple call or message. Visit Ratio Seven today to start the process.
FAQs
What areas of the UK do you cover?
We cover the whole of the UK, from large cities to rural villages. Just get in touch and we can tell you when we’re next near your site.
How much does air pressure testing cost?
The price depends on things like the size of your house and the number of units. For example, a single house can cost less than £200, whereas multiple plots might come with discount options. Ask us for a quote and we’ll break it down clearly.
Can you help with other services too?
Yes. We also provide SAP calculations, sound testing, and water calculations needed for building compliance. Lots of our clients prefer to keep things simple by dealing with only one company rather than many.
Is a site visit always needed?
Yes. Air pressure testing has to be done on-site using fans and tools designed for the job. We always check entry points and sealing before testing, so it’s not something that can be done remotely.
Will testing disrupt construction?
Not if planned at the right time. Testing usually takes just a couple of hours and is booked when construction is almost finished. With good timing, it won’t delay anything.
Get Help From Trusted UK Air Pressure Testing Experts
Air pressure testing is one of those behind-the-scenes steps that play a big role in the quality of your building. It’s not just paperwork. Done well, it means a warmer, cosier, and cheaper home to run.
At Ratio Seven, our team cares about helping you pass the test and build better homes. We stick to the rules but speak your language. Whether you’re a self-builder building your dream home or a developer with dozens of plots, we’re here to help.
Head over to Ratio Seven now and arrange your test. Let’s help your project tick all the right boxes quickly and with less stress.
