Air tightness testing specialist Chiltern Dynamics has cited lack of attention to detail in key areas as one of the main causes of failure for both domestic and commercial buildings.
In-house test statistics show that more than 90% of buildings are achieving less than 10m3/h/m2 @ 50Pa, the regulatory requirement under Part L, but only 24% are achieving less than 5m3/h/m2 @ 50Pa. ‘This is of concern, as all the indicators suggest that the bar will be raised much higher when Part L is revised in 2010.’ said Energy Section Head Tom Gregory.
Overlooking important details is one of the principal causes of failure and will also prevent buildings achieving an enhanced performance. ‘A prime culprit is dot and dab plasterboard, a particular problem behind kitchen units where boarding may not meet the floor. There needs to be a continuous seal between wall and floor, for example a continuous ribbon of plaster on the bottom edge of boarding, or appropriate sealing around the skirting. Also, a parge coat of the block work behind plasterboarding should reduce leakage in this area.’ Mr Gregory suggested.
Another common problem is leakage around service voids and risers opening into unventilated spaces, for example, soil vent pipes into loft spaces and services into plant rooms. Duct work, cabling or pipe work could be sealed at every point it enters the riser or void, alternatively the riser or void could be sealed where it exits the ventilated space.'
He added, ‘Passing the air tightness test is not onerous, but it does demand close attention to detail in these and other areas.’
PDF: Chiltern Dynamics highlights reasons for air test failures
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