Blower Door Analysis

Generally, builders routinely build houses that are very airtight, often without realizing it. The tightness level of a building cannot be accurately estimated by visual inspection alone and with knowing the air tightness level; it is difficult to design for effective and economic ap proaches to ventilation and air quality, or to accurately diagnose performance problems.

Constructing tight structures without providing proper ventilation increases the potential for problems to occur. Higher moisture levels can result in condensation, potential mold growth, and create an ideal environment for sick building syndrome and ensuing deterioration. Although structures may be more likely to experience potential problems from back-drafting and spillage of combustion products from naturally drafting furnaces, water heaters and fireplaces, overly ventilated buildings are not cost effective.

Leaking structures may experience drafts, blistering paint, ice dams, and frozen pipes as well as inadequate heating and/or cooling. Air Tightness Testing utilizing a blower door (and optional infrared scans) is recommended to provide and maintain a more economical building.

Acuity is a leader in the field of Building Diagnostics and provides additional services such as Stucco/EIFS Investigations, Indoor Air Quality and Microbial Assessments, Moisture Surveys, Engineering Services, and Property Condition Assessments.