A blower door is a machine used to measure the airtightness of buildings.

 

The reasons for establishing airtightness are to reduce energy consumption, avoid moisture condensation issues, prevent uncomfortable draughts leaking in from outside, and determine how much mechanical ventilation might be needed to provide acceptable indoor air quality.

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The testing procedure consists of a pressure gauge to measure the pressure differences inside and outside the home and an airflow manometer and hoses for measuring airflow.

 

• Costs start at $2,500 + GST  

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• Timeframe: 2-3 hours onsite + travel time (if the target air leakage rate is achieved)

 

If air leakage is discovered, additional time is required to identify air leakage paths and then retest if the targeted rate was not achieved at the outset and after the leaks have been addressed.

 

Please note: Although blower door tests can be carried out at any time, this type of testing is usually done during construction so that any leaks that are discovered can be resolved before the completion of the build.