Whole Building Air Tightness Testing is used for the measurement of the air permeability of buildings or parts of buildings at site and it specifies a method of pressurization or depressurization of the building. It is a measure of the resulting air flow rates over a range of indoor-outdoor static pressure differences. This test ensures there is no uncontrolled airflow or air leakage in the building. In case of excessive leakage, more energy is lost from the building, resulting in significantly higher electricity costs. It is preferable to maintain air tight buildings, allowing for controlled ventilation to suit the building type and environment. This type of test determines the building’s air leakage rate. Ideal conditions for the test described in this International Standard are small temperature differences and low wind speeds. For tests conducted in the field, it needs to be recognized that field conditions can be less than ideal. Nevertheless, strong winds and large indoor-outdoor temperature differences are to be avoided.
