Air Leakage Test

Why Choose Us?

An Air Tightness Test cannot be carried out by any business or individual without the correct qualifications and equipment required to accurately perform the test. At Best Air Sound Test LTD, we take pride in saying that we are fully registered members of the Air Tightness Testing & Measurement Association (ATTMA) and have the accreditation, years of experience and reputation required to help your project achieve the required results.

BEST AIR SOUND TEST LTD specialise in the carrying out of Air Pressure Testing of dwellings and small commercial buildings. Being accredited with ATTMA, we are able to offer services of Air Tightness Testing for residential and commercial buildings with the capacity for Level 1 < 4000m3 also Level 2 > 4000m3, in accordance with Part L of Building Regulations and the ATTMA test method. All of our equipment is purchased from and UKAS calibrated by BSRIA (Certificates always available for inspection upon request).

Our aim is to provide a package for our clients that will ensure their dwelling meets the requirements set by the Building Regulations. In order to make the process as smooth as possible for all involved, our service includes a checklist at the early stages of a build to help you determine when your building is ready for testing, in addition to the provision of practical advice and support throughout.

A pre-test site visit can also be arranged at an appropriate stage, which helps to foster a positive test result.

How is the Test Done?

Air tightness tests measure the performance of the building, reporting back to the client with the total amount of air leakage per square metre of the dwelling. The score is shown as metres cubed (m3 ) of air lost, per hour, per metre square of building envelope, expressed as m3/h.m2 per hour.

The test method involves installing a calibrated fan into the most suitable doorway of the dwelling, using it to blow air into the building and depressurise it without causing any damage to the property. The level of airflow is then measured at a range of pressure differences. As we know the quantity of air going through the fan, we can calculate the amount of air escaping - giving us a highly accurate air leakage rate.

What are the Site Requirements for a Building Air Leakage Test?

We’ll provide you with a full checklist of the building requirements prior to the test, but the most important requirements for the building are that the integrity of its structure is complete prior to the test, and all major penetration to walls and floors must have been made.

Any controlled ventilation openings will be sealed with sheeting or adhesive tape for the testing period. No one should enter or exit the building and all exterior doors and windows must be kept closed for the duration of the test; It is preferable that the property be unoccupied. The duration of the test is dependent upon the buildings’ size but it should generally take no longer than two hours - after set-up, the test is typically completed in under an hour.

What Happens if my Building Fails the Test?

While we can’t promise that your building will pass the test the first time, we can assure that we’ll do everything in our power and work with you to create the correct conditions for testing so we can achieve the best result possible.

To encourage a positive result, you should ensure that all light fittings and sockets are fitted and that all windows, doors and skirting boards are installed and sealed, in addition to closing any window trickle vents. You should check that there are no gaps between any of these and also check your window/sills, doors, frames and waste & supply pipes for the same thing.

Please contact us or fill out our enquiry form to request more information or to receive a quotation on air leakage testing.