Building Envelope Pressure Testing
Comprehensive air tightness testing, blower door testing, and waterproofing membrane verification for residential and commercial buildings across BC.
Building Envelope Integrity Testing
The building envelope is your structure's primary defense against water intrusion, air leakage, and energy loss. Building envelope pressure testing encompasses several critical verification methods including blower door air tightness testing, waterproofing membrane pressure testing, and window/balcony assembly testing.
PressureTesting.ca provides comprehensive building envelope testing services that meet BC Building Code requirements, BC Energy Step Code compliance levels, and industry standards including ASTM E779, ASTM E1827, and ASTM E1105. Our testing identifies air leakage paths, quantifies infiltration rates, and verifies waterproofing system integrity before problems develop.
With British Columbia's demanding climate and increasingly stringent energy efficiency requirements, building envelope testing has become essential for new construction, major renovations, and existing building assessments. Our detailed testing and reporting helps builders, developers, and property owners achieve energy efficiency targets while protecting structures from moisture damage.
Building Envelope Testing Services
Blower Door Air Tightness Testing
- Whole-building air leakage measurement (ACH50)
- BC Energy Step Code compliance testing (Steps 3-5)
- Passive House certification testing
- Air leakage location identification with thermal imaging
- Pre and post-renovation air tightness verification
Waterproofing Membrane Testing
- Balcony and deck waterproofing pressure testing
- Below-grade waterproofing membrane verification
- Plaza deck and podium waterproofing testing
- Green roof membrane integrity testing
- Water penetration resistance testing (ASTM E1105)
Window & Door Assembly Testing
- Window installation air and water leakage testing
- Curtain wall system pressure testing
- Sliding glass door weather resistance testing
- Storefront and entrance system verification
Diagnostic Testing Services
- Thermal imaging leak detection during blower door test
- Smoke testing for air infiltration visualization
- Existing building envelope condition assessment
- Post-repair verification testing
BC Energy Step Code Compliance
Many BC municipalities now require Energy Step Code compliance for new construction. Air tightness testing is mandatory at higher step levels:
| Step Level | Air Tightness Requirement | Testing Required |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1-2 | No specific requirement | Optional |
| Step 3 | ≤ 3.0 ACH @ 50Pa (houses) ≤ 2.5 ACH @ 50Pa (apartments) | Mandatory |
| Step 4 | ≤ 2.5 ACH @ 50Pa (houses) ≤ 2.0 ACH @ 50Pa (apartments) | Mandatory |
| Step 5 | ≤ 1.5 ACH @ 50Pa (all buildings) | Mandatory |
ACH @ 50Pa = Air Changes per Hour at 50 Pascals pressure difference. Lower numbers indicate better air tightness and energy efficiency.
Why Air Tightness Matters
- Energy Efficiency: Air leakage accounts for 25-40% of heating and cooling costs in typical buildings
- Comfort: Drafts and temperature variations reduce occupant comfort
- Moisture Control: Uncontrolled air movement can transport moisture into wall cavities causing mold and rot
- HVAC Performance: Tight envelopes allow mechanical systems to operate at design efficiency
- Building Durability: Controlled air and vapor movement extends building lifespan
Common Building Envelope Issues We Detect
Air Leakage Paths
- • Electrical box and light fixture penetrations
- • Plumbing and HVAC penetrations through envelope
- • Rim joist and sill plate connections
- • Window and door rough opening sealing
- • Attic hatch and access points
Waterproofing Defects
- • Incomplete membrane coverage
- • Poor detailing at drains and transitions
- • Membrane punctures or tears
- • Inadequate flashing at penetrations
- • Failed seam and joint sealing
Professional Building Envelope Testing
Protect your building from air leakage, moisture damage, and energy waste. Our comprehensive envelope testing ensures long-term performance and Energy Step Code compliance.