Why You Need Air Testing For New Builds
Searching for air testing Bristol or air permeability testing (also referred to as air tightness testing or blower door testing) is a necessary component of any energy efficient building development. It measures how much air leaks through the fabric of the building enclosure, which can affect its energy efficiency and occupant comfort levels.
Additionally, it helps identify any draughts, gaps or cracks in the fabric which could reduce insulation value of a building. Furthermore, it can identify ventilation requirements – essential for creating a healthy indoor environment for occupants.
In the UK, Part L of the Building Regulations requires all new dwellings and commercial buildings to undergo an air permeability test. The results of this assessment must then be used in both Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) calculations and Energy Performance Certificates to determine whether a building complies with its Part L obligations.
Why Air Testing Important in Bristol
Under Part L of the Building Regulations, air testing is mandatory for all new residential and non-residential developments in England, Wales and Scotland under Approved Document Part L1A or Section 6 (Scotland) or Part F1 (Northern Ireland). Test results are used in SAP calculations (for dwellings) or SBEM calculations (for commercial buildings) which can affect an overall energy rating.
It is worth noting that air permeability tests, like other environmental testing methods, require regular and consistent calibration to maintain accuracy. This can be challenging when performing a site test; which is why Compliance 4 Buildings calibrates all of our air pressure testing equipment at an accredited laboratory prior to beginning any field work.
The procedure for air permeability testing in Bristol, UK typically involves the following steps:
- Preparation: The testing process begins with the preparation of the building for the test. All windows and doors are closed, and any sources of ventilation, such as extractor fans, are turned off.
- Blower Door Test: A blower door test is conducted using a specialised testing device called a blower door. The blower door is a powerful fan that is mounted in an external door opening, and it is used to pressurize the building. The fan is used to measure the airflow rate into and out of the building.
- Measurement: During the test, the airflow rate is measured, and the building’s airtightness is calculated. The results of the test are expressed as the air permeability rate (m3/hr/m2) or air changes per hour (ach). The air permeability rate represents the amount of air that is leaking into or out of the building. The lower the air permeability rate, the better the building’s airtightness.
- Analysis: After the test, the results are analysed, and any areas of air leakage are identified. The results of the test are then compared with the required standards set by the UK government.
