Air Tightness Test
Small leaks in external partitions can cause drafts, reducing the comfort of the building and leading to significant energy losses. They can also interfere with the operation of the central heating or mechanical ventilation system. A large portion of energy is used for ventilation, and drafts can even double this consumption! The air tightness test, also known as the Blower Door Test, reveals all significant—even the smallest—leaks.
Also check out our article on the gas retention test.
Air Tightness Test – blower door test
The blower door fan creates forced positive or negative pressure in the building being tested. This ensures that all leaks responsible for heat loss are revealed during measurements.
Leaks may occur around window seals, in roof insulation (e.g., mineral wool), around electrical outlets, etc. In standard thermographic analysis without an airtightness setup, detecting leaks largely depends on wind strength and direction. With a controlled pressure difference, we can detect all air leaks—regardless of current weather conditions!
Order the blower door test and save on heating, cooling, and moisture-related costs. By combining the airtightness test with a thermal imaging camera, we will identify and recommend how to fix the issues. This will reduce heat loss and heating expenses. The test is best performed during construction or before property purchase.
If you’re unsure whether to perform a blower door test, ask yourself:
- Are your heating bills too high?
- Are some rooms colder than others?
- Do you have issues with humidity or mold?
- Are you planning to invest in a house or apartment?
If you answered “yes” to any of the above, contact us. We’ll identify all the leaks and explain how to fix them.
Order an airtightness test and report to your developer
Polish building regulations govern technical building requirements. According to the Regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure (April 12, 2002), the maximum air exchange rate in the n50 test should not exceed 1.5/h for new buildings with mechanical ventilation.
For naturally ventilated buildings, it should not exceed 3.0/h. These limits were introduced by the Regulation of November 6, 2008 (Journal of Laws 2008 No. 201, item 1238).
This regulation came into force on 01.01.2009. The 2013 amendment (Regulation of July 5, 2013, Journal of Laws 2013 item 926) no longer requires these values, but still recommends 1.5/h for mechanical ventilation and 3.0/h for natural ventilation.
What does this mean? If your airtightness test shows non-compliance with recommended n50 values or contract requirements, you may demand repairs from the developer or builder. If not under warranty, we will identify areas needing improvement and advise on thermal comfort, reduced wall dampness, and lower heating bills.
How the blower door test is performed – step by step
A proper air tightness test requires precision and preparation. First, pressure is equalized by turning off stoves, sealing ventilation, and closing external doors. Then, a blower door is installed to measure how much air escapes the building. Lastly, we locate the leaks using thermal imaging or smoke generators.
We guarantee identification of all air leaks and recommend how to fix them!
Thanks to thermal imaging and smoke generators, we can pinpoint leaks and recommend solutions during construction or years after use—allowing you to save significantly on annual energy costs.
