Air Permeability Testing is like Concreting
Explaining airtightness testing can sound overly technical and like a science experiment. But there’s a simple way to think about it: testing airtightness is like pouring concrete. Both require preparation, teamwork, the right timing, and quality control. Just as a well-poured slab underpins the strength and performance of a building, airtightness testing underpins its energy efficiency, comfort, and long-term durability.
The comparison highlights how airtightness testing is not just a box-ticking exercise, it’s a crucial part of the construction process that, when done right, sets the foundation for high-performing, sustainable buildings. Builders who engage early, prepare thoroughly, and work with the airtightness team reap the rewards of better outcomes and fewer costly fixes down the track.
| Requirements | Concreting | Airtightness Test | Builder Input |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preparation is Key | Site prep: dig, mesh, pipes, plastic. Before concrete pouring commences. | Site prep: Set up blower door, run comms, and get building envelope suitable for testing. | Communicate with trades to ensure the building is prepared. |
| Timing is Critical | The concrete delivery, trades, and weather conditions (esp. rain) need to be right for the pour. | Weather (esp. wind) and timing with other trades matter to certification and accuracy of the testing. | Work with us to schedule, considering the weather and other trades. |
| Needs a Team | Cooperation between the concreting team and all other trades. | Cooperation between the airtightness team and all other trades. | Agreed on cooperation and support. |
| Needs to be Scheduled with Others | Let other trades know – site off-limits during pour and setting. | Let other trades know – site off-limits during building setup and pressure testing. | Ensure others on site are fully aware of the schedule and any changes. |
| Quality Control essential | Check level, thickness, and strength to Standards to verify compliance. | Check for leaks and test to Standards to verify compliance. | Understand that we must meet Standards. |
| Hard to Fix Later | Mistakes are locked in after pour. Rework is costly and time-consuming. | Fixing leaks later is hard. Rework is costly and time-consuming. | Preparation of the building and HVAC system. |
| Whole of Building Impact | Effects structure, thermal mass, and moisture. | Effects structure, thermal mass, moisture + HVAC, and acoustics. | Ask for clarification, we’ll happily discuss. |
| We provide results by Inspection and Testing | Concrete is inspected for defects, and strength is tested and recorded to Standards. | Air testing inspects the built envelope for defects and certifies leakage levels to Standards. | Understanding that we must verify results before the job is complete. |
Just like concrete, airtightness is foundational to performance but invisible once complete. By working together to get the details right during construction, builders and airtightness testers ensure that the final result is resilient, efficient, and future-proofed.
