Why Air Tightness Testing is Essential for Greener, Efficient Buildings
At APT Sound Testing, we provide professional Air Tightness Testing across the United Kingdom. From single homes to large commercial buildings, we offer comprehensive testing services tailored to every project. As one of the few UKAS-accredited companies qualified to conduct both Air and Sound Testing, we can carry out Air, Sound, and Vent Testing packages in a single visit, saving our clients time, money, and hassle. Importantly, all our work is carried out in-house, no subcontracting.
Understanding Air Tightness and Its Importance
Since 2006, air testing has been a legal requirement in England and Wales under Building Regulations Part L. Its primary goal is to reduce energy loss, helping create greener, more energy-efficient buildings. In simple terms, air leakage is the uncontrolled flow of air through gaps in a building, something most people recognize as draughts.
Energy lost through these gaps contributes to the building emission rate. Modern developments must meet specific standards for air tightness, with typical targets for homes around 5.0 m³/hr/m², and even stricter levels for commercial buildings, often around 3.0 m³/hr/m².
Uncontrolled air movement can also cause practical problems:
- Summer: Humid air infiltrates the building, potentially affecting comfort.
- Winter: Moist indoor air can exfiltrate into cold wall cavities, causing condensation, mould, or rot.
How We Support Your Project
APT Sound Testing doesn’t just test air tightness; we offer consultancy and design reviews from the earliest stages of a project through to precompletion testing, ensuring compliance and smooth building control signoff. For added convenience, we offer out-of-hours testing, including weekends, to minimize disruption.
We also provide combined Air and Sound Testing packages, which many clients find cost-effective. Our multi-skilled engineers conduct both tests in a coordinated, methodical manner during a single visit, eliminating the need to hire multiple companies.
The Benefits of Air Tightness Testing
Air tightness testing involves blower door and smoke tests to measure airflow and locate leaks. Here’s why it’s so valuable:
- Energy Efficiency: Leaks force your heating or cooling systems to work harder, increasing costs. Testing helps estimate energy loss and supports accurate equipment sizing.
- Identifying Hidden Leaks: Small gaps and cracks often account for the majority of air leakage. Our experienced engineers pinpoint these areas quickly, ensuring proper sealing.
- Occupant Comfort: Draughts make buildings uncomfortable. We’ve seen office spaces with leakage rates as high as 25 m³/hr/m², making them nearly uninhabitable, after sealing, rates fell below 5 m³/hr/m².
- Condensation Prevention: Uncontrolled air movement can carry moisture, leading to mould and rot. A well-designed air barrier helps maintain air quality and structural integrity.
- Pollutant Control: Air leaks can let in outdoor pollutants, especially near roads or commercial areas. Effective sealing protects indoor air quality.
Why Choose APT Sound Testing
With extensive experience in Approved Document L requirements and thousands of successful tests across London and the UK, we provide practical guidance from design to completion. Early planning is key to avoiding failed tests and ensuring compliance.
We also offer tools to help you prepare, including our air tightness checklist, so you know exactly what to expect. Our friendly team of consultants is always ready to provide advice and support for your project.
Ready to improve your building’s energy efficiency, comfort, and compliance? Contact APT Sound Testing today to discuss your specific air testing requirements.
For friendly, expert advice tailored to your development, contact our team today on 01525 303905 or via our online contact form to discuss your air testing requirements.