Excessive air leakage in our buildings is a problem

Draughts make us uncomfortable, and lead to higher heating costs and increased fuel poverty

Air leakage increases heat loss, making our buildings colder, and hence leads to condensation & mould occurring, resulting in damage to residents’ health – with consequent extra costs to, and stress upon, health services

Moisture is in the air moving through the walls or roofs of our homes and other buildings. This water can be deposited in the building fabric, often giving rise to major damage and shortening a building’s life

Contractually the most common immediate impact of poor airtightness is that all new buildings, and many refurbishment projects, include a specification that must be met – because of the above issues.  Failing to achieve the airtightness target, however described, means that the contractor will typically be liable to carry out improvement works to deal with the air leakage issues. Usually, they will also have to pay for extra airtightness testing, and may be on the hook for additional costs due to delays.

Where to start?

Paul Jennings

UK's most experienced airtightness tester○ AECB Expert Advisor○ Airtightness trainer & consultant
 ◦doorfanman@hotmail.com07866 948 200