Air Pressure Testing
Air leakage has always been an assumed building design parameter and testing is now compulsory for all dwellings built under the 2008 Building Regulations. Our Air Tightness Testing makes this leakage distinctly measurable. This testing provides an acceptable criteria and a repeatable quality test. The calculated representative leakage characteristics of a building – the Air Permeability - is expressed in m3/hr/m2 @ 50 Pa. As part of our survey we can also carry out a smoke test which will identify areas of air leakage. All our Air pressure testing is carried out to the highest standards and in accordance with IS EN 13829 and ATTMA TS1.

Excessive Air Leakage Results in

• Inadequate heating systems
• High fuel costs
• Cold surfaces
• Ineffective insulation
• Occupant Discomfort and Complaint
• Health Issues
• Low Productivity (Commercial)

Building Regulations 3.4.1

Building Envelope Air Permeability:

• To avoid excessive heat losses, reasonable care should be taken to limit the air permeability of the envelope of each dwelling. In this context, enve lope is the total area of all floors, walls (including windows and doors), and ceilings bordering the dwelling.
•  A performance level of 10m 3/hr/m2 represents a reasonable upper limit for air permeability 
• If the result is greater than 10m3/hr/m2 remedial work and a retest is required, this will need to be repeated until the above figure is achieved 
   

The following detailed FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS about Air Pressure Testing should help answer any outstanding questions you may have

What is air leakage in buildings?
Air leakage (also known as air permeability or air infiltration) is the air tightness of a dwelling through uncontrolled means such as cracks and gaps in the building envelope. Any ventilation system installed in a building is seen as a source of controlled air flow and is therefore not considere d as air leakage. At a very basic level, air leakage may be seen as unwanted draughts. 
 
Why is it important to build air tight dwellings?
The energy that we use to heat our homes is primarily created by burning fossil fuels that produces carbon dioxide. If we reduce the air leakage of a building we also reduce the amount of energy required to maintain comfort levels reduce energy costs and in turn reduce carbon dioxide emissions. The best policy is build tight and ventilate right.
 
What causes infiltration?
Air leakage is usually caused by the wind blowing against or across a building. 
 
Why do I need to test the Air Tightness of a Building?
Air pressure testing of a proportion of all new domestic housing is a legal requirement in accordance with the guidance given in the revised building regulations which came into effect on 1st July 2008. Testing the air tightness of existing dwellings can highlight areas of problems that can be treated cost effectively to improve the energy efficiency of the dwelling as a whole. 
 
When are Air Pressure Tests carried out?
Air tightness tests are usually carried out during the construction and commissioning process of a building when the external envelope is fully complete, with windows and external doors in place. A full list to determine the readiness of dwelling to be tested can be provided on request.
 

Contact us at any time on

T: 087 9386694
E: air@gilroyenergy.ie
Streedagh, Grange, Co. Sligo