Air quality inside a building affects both comfort and long-term health. It also plays a direct role in energy use. Poor air control leads to heat loss along with higher energy bills. That is why air testing has become part of standard checks for residential and commercial buildings.
When builders and developers ask why an air-tightness test is done, the answer goes beyond basic compliance. It is about safety, performance and long-term cost control.
What Is Air Tightness Testing
This test checks how much air escapes or enters through gaps in the building. These gaps may be around doors, windows, pipes or walls. The more air that moves through them, the less energy efficient the building becomes.
The test involves sealing the building and using a fan to control air pressure. This helps measure how much air leaks in or out. If the number stays within the approved range, the building passes. If not, sealing work is needed.
Why Is an Air Tightness Test Done
The goal is to reduce unwanted air flow. Leaks can affect temperature control, increase heating needs and let in dust or damp. These problems reduce indoor air quality. Over time they may also damage walls or create mould.
Testing helps builders correct small faults before the property is handed over. This is why air tightness testing in UK is now part of the building regulation process. It helps confirm that a property is sealed and energy ready.
When to Book the Test
Air testing is usually done near the end of construction. The walls, windows and services must be in place. There should be no ongoing work that leaves gaps open. Most developers plan this stage after final fixes are done. Booking in advance avoids delay and gives time for small repairs. Whether you need air testing in Hampshire or nearby, early scheduling helps avoid rushed changes.
How the Test Works
A fan is fixed into the frame of an external door. The building is closed from the inside. The fan pulls air out of the space. Sensors then track how much air returns through cracks or openings. The result is given as a number based on the air change rate. This shows how airtight the space is. If the rate is too high, areas with leaks must be sealed before retesting. Teams that offer air-tightness testing services in Hampshire help guide the fix process if needed.
Local Services You Can Count On
Many builders now prefer to use local experts for speed and accuracy. Teams offering air tightness testing in Wiltshire or nearby arrive with all tools and complete reports within the same day. This makes the handover process easier and more predictable. Having a local team also helps during early planning. They advise on design changes that improve air control from the start.
Final Word
An air tightness test is not a purely technical measure. It provides security to the occupants of the building and helps to reduce the cost in the long-term. It also shows that the property is legally in compliance with the use of energy.
Call Southern Assessors in Hampshire, or the adjacent counties, e.g. Wiltshire, in case you need air-tightness testing services. They have been involved in air tightness testing in the UK, whereby all checks are done with care and reported. This is a test that is required by builders and developers who want to have control and confidence before handover.