The round-robin test of Czech airtightness providers was organised in order to obtain information about the measurement equipment generally used and in order to compare the test results given by different technicians operating with different devices. All the participants measured the same building under very similar conditions. The preparation...

The objective of the WTA* data sheet “Air tightness in existing buildings” is to support planners and contractors in modernizing and renovating buildings. Taking existing standards and regulations into account, the data sheet features the analysis of existing buildings, professional planning and implementation, as well as air tightness...

We have developed a simple model to estimate ductwork leakage and heat conduction losses in steady-state conditions for a balanced ventilation system. Implemented in a spreadsheet, it allows us to calculate their impact on heat recovery efficiency consistently with EN 15241 without the need for a dynamic simulation tool. One case study...

The actual question is as follows: “Is the building envelope of the first passive house in China sufficiently airtight?” To determine air-tightness in China, a pressure differential test was to be conducted. First, a number of questions had to be answered. What building system is used and which materials are implemented? Who will...

The manufactures tests of windows in Europe are executed in accordance with the CE-directive. Air- and water tightness testing are performed in accordance with EN 1026 and classified in accordance with EN12207. Air- and water leakage measurements are performed under laboratory conditions using a test chamber and...

To describe the quality of adhesive joints and connections for airtight layers, our research includes comprehensive investigations into the effect of different working conditions and accelerated aging. Existing methods for testing adhesion are analysed and adjusted. The evaluation of adhesives’ suitability for permanently...

During the BlowerDoor building test, it must be ensured that all building parts of the test building or the test section have air connection, and that the test object can be considered one single zone. This also applies to large buildings like office buildings, schools, indoor pools, etc. with several floors and winding floor plans. Overly tight airflow...

Building and ductwork airtightness represent a key challenge towards very-low energy buildings and therefore towards the ambitious 2020 targets set in the recast of the energy performance of buildings directive. Results of the EU ASIEPI project (www.asiepi.eu, [6]) have shown that for most European climates, leaky envelopes and duct systems...