What is Building Airtightness & Air Tightness Testing ?
A Key to Sustainable Living
Maximizing Airtightness in Australian Buildings
In the diverse climate of Australia, airtightness in buildings plays a crucial role in promoting energy efficiency and sustainability. Airtightness refers to the control of air leakage in and out of a building’s envelope, which includes its walls, roof, and foundation. An envelope leakage test is done by a blower door machine. This control is vital for several reasons:
- Energy Efficiency: Airtight buildings minimize the loss of conditioned air, reducing the demand on heating and cooling systems. In Australia’s varied climate zones, from the tropical north to the temperate south, this translates to lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
- Comfort and Health: Airtightness contributes to a stable indoor environment, free from drafts and external temperature fluctuations. It also helps in maintaining indoor air quality by preventing the infiltration of dust, pollen, and other pollutants, which is particularly beneficial for Australia’s high allergy and asthma rates.
- Durability: By preventing moisture from entering the building envelope, airtightness protects the structural integrity of buildings. In Australia’s coastal regions, where buildings are exposed to salt-laden air, this is especially important to prevent corrosion and decay.
- Compliance with Standards: Australia’s National Construction Code (NCC) sets out performance requirements for the energy efficiency of buildings. Airtightness testing and improvements help builders and developers meet or exceed these standards, ensuring compliance and enhancing the building’s market value.
- Global Leadership: As a world leader in green building, Australia recognizes the importance of airtightness for achieving high ratings in sustainability assessments like Green Star. Improving airtightness is a step towards maintaining this leadership and setting an example for environmentally responsible construction.
Airtightness is not just a technical requirement; it’s a commitment to quality, comfort, and sustainability. As Australia continues to grow and urbanize, focusing on airtight construction will be key to creating buildings that are not only energy-efficient but also resilient and healthy for all occupants.
A new CSIRO study published (published here) in June 2024 identifies in detail the importance of proper air tightness and outlines the findings of CSIRO study of Air Infiltration of new dwellings in Australia.
If you are interested in air tightness testing please contact us, we can service Melbourne, Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and the whole of Victoria - where go where you need us!