What Is Air Tightness – The Basics!

Air tightness is defined as the volume of air that flows through gaps and cracks in a building. If the build is needlessly providing air leaks, it can suffocate the building’s energy efficiency. This would lead to a more expensive bill.

The Secret is in the Preparation!

When preparing for an air pressure test, it is KEY to follow these simple measures. If you follow these basic steps, you will save yourself time and money by getting that FIRST-TIME PASS.

You’ll likely know some of the most common areas where air leakage occurs, but the best place to start would be with the windows and door frames. These areas are commonly known to have drops in temperature. If you place your hand around the seal, you will probably feel a slight breeze.

Another area would be any drafts underneath the door. When identifying leakages, you need to find the less visible gaps or cracks.

What Are The Inspection Areas For Leaks?

• •  Electrical sockets

• •  Around Door and window frames

• •  Electrical and gas service entrances

• •  Behind appliances mainly kitchen and bathroom fittings

• •  Pipe work for kitchens and bathrooms

• •  Loft hatches

• •  Trickle vents

• •  Attic hatches

• •  Mounted air conditioners

• •  Cable for TV and phone lines

• •  Extractor vents in utility and bathrooms

• •  Chimney and flues

Before having an air pressure test, go around the build and seal up these areas first. Initially start sealing all extractor vents in the build. They will usually be in bathrooms, kitchens and utilities. Once that’s done, seal up all trickle vents on the windows. The best way to do this is by using mastic tape, which won’t damage the material or tear paint off. You can also use Air Sealing tape, which is designed specifically for this use. After that, seal around any loft or attic doors. If you have a chimney, seal it with insulation. If you are not able to, an engineer will have specific sealing for that.

If you can seal all these things before an engineer arrives, it will save you and the engineer time. It will also make the process easier for you to pass the air test the first time!

ATSPACE compliance engineers are fully accredited to help you achieve compliance in all areas of building compliance. Compliance can feel tricky, and sometimes you feel you have to make compromises. Trust us when we say this, you don’t. It isn’t about compromise; it’s about knowing how to get the most from each compliance service and getting them to work together harmoniously. If you have any questions, or would like to talk to someone, please call us here at ATSPACE.

Download your free Commercial or Residential Air Testing checklist.