Pressure Testing (Air Testing)

Pressure Testing, also known as Air Pressure Tesing is a requirement for both new dwellings and new non-domestic buildings. For the purpose of new dwellings Building Control usually dictate which dwellings require to be tested. For the purpose of pressure testing, new dwellings need to comply with Approved Document ADL1A.

The purpose of an air test is to identify unwanted air leakage from the dwelling and is also a part of the DER-TER/SAP Calculations process to reduce co2 emissions and heating costs. There are many reasons why new dwellings fail an air pressure test. The following checklist below will give you an indication of areas to identify for weaknesses and also how to prepare for a pressure test.

Checklist

Cavities sealed at roof junctions
Windows fitted, including glazing and trickle vents
Windows can close and mastic sealing is complete
Walls in a completed state i.e. plasterboarded/wet plastered
All plumbing work complete and traps full to sinks WCs
All plumbing/gas/oil/elctrical pipework to be sealed (pipework etc. behind bath panels also needs to be sealed)
Skirting boards/architraves fitted and sealed
Sockets/light switches fitted
Internal and external doors hung and able to close
Loft hatch fitted and draft stripped

General Info

Have working drawings and SAP checklist been forwarded.
Dwellings are empty and tidy. The test is not aggressive and may be carried out in a furnished dwelling although RTS will not be responsible for damages.
Dwellings must have 240v 50Hz mains power.
Mastic sealant completed to services penetrating the envelope including pipes in boiler/cylinder cupboards.
No traders to be working in the dwellings during the tests.
Ensure all form of heating is turned off.
Parking available for unloading equipment.
If an open fire is installed please discuss with us the best option for sealing measures.

Please contact us if have any any questions regrding Pressure Testing.

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