Field Testing

Field Testing

We use field testing to validate our assumptions. We have all the tools to quantitatively measure the building’s performance, or qualitatively assess the state of construction.

Blower Door Testing For Building Airtightness We use specialized fans to pressurize or depressurize a building to determine a building’s air leakage. Whether it’s for new residential construction requiring energy code compliance or determining leakage in existing buildings, we can do it!
	Mid-Construction Airtightness Testing Having a blower door test done before all finished surfaces are installed gives builders a chance to address any areas of air leakage while they are still accessible. It also ensures that projects aiming for a highly airtight envelope are on track to meet their goals.
Thermal Bridging / Air Leakage Identification via Thermal IR Camera Thermal cameras allow you to capture a snapshot of the thermal radiance of different elements of a building. At 3West, we are trained to use thermal cameras to spot air leakage paths and thermal bridges during mid-construction or post-construction.
	Smoke Testing Smoke pencils are used to visualize air flows and leakage paths between the interior and exterior environments. Conduct a qualitative assessment of the integrity of the building’s air barrier. For exterior air barriers, large scale smoke machines may be used to indicate leaky connections.