EXPERTISE // SERVICES // BUILDING ENCLOSURE TESTING

Whole Building Air Pressurization Testing

 

The increasing demand for high-performance buildings has prompted code changes that mandate efficient use of energy and resources. These changes include more stringent requirements regarding the performance of building envelopes, particularly when it comes to their airtightness. We have in-house equipment and capabilities to perform quantitative air leakage testing for buildings of any size or complexity. We also use infrared imaging and theatrical fog tracing to identify locations of air leakage through building envelopes.

Various building codes and institutions are increasingly requiring whole building air barrier testing. The 2021 International Energy Conservation Code requires testing of most commercial buildings over 5,000 square feet. ASHRAE 90.1 2019 requires either testing or intensive quality control observations of the air barrier design and installation for all commercial buildings. California Title 24 currently has testing as an option for compliance, but mandatory testing is being considered in the revisions currently underway.

Our engineers and architects have gone through extensive large building training provided by the Air Barrier Association of America (ABAA) and The Energy Conservatory. Our equipment can also be used to perform forensic qualitative or quantitative testing, along with air leakage site location tracing. WJE’s nationally ABAA-certified air barrier specialists are ready to assist clients with their whole building air pressurization testing needs.
 


WJE building scientist Justin Boone demonstrates a whole building air leakage test and explains how the data collected helps owners make their buildings more air tight and energy efficient:

Solving for Why: Whole Building Air Leakage Testing