Testing Services
The IAA CS offer a range of building testing services for your project requirements
Background Ventilation and Air Tightness Testing
The IAA CS offer a field-based solution to your background ventilation requirements. The IAA have developed a TrustMark approved process that addresses background ventilation requirements under pathway A and B of PAS 2035 and provides an alternative for pathway C whilst not replacing the airtightness testing requirements.
By using The IAA CS ventilation and air tightness testing service you can avoid the unnecessary install of trickle vents and door undercuts where sufficient existing background ventilation is proven. Download this leaflet for further information.
Benefits of the service:
Pre-install
A test must first be carried out on the dwelling as a whole, these results provide insight into the total level of background ventilation across the whole property. As per PAS 2035 and dependent on the result, adding more EEM advanced ventilation interventions may be necessary.
Post-install
Upon completing the installation of the planned EEM works a final background ventilation test is carried out to ensure background air changes go beyond the guidance set out in PAS 2035. In many cases both pre and post testing can take place on the same day for cavity wall, loft or underfloor insulation
Thermal Performance Measuring of Buildings
Thermal performance testing enables you to receive an accurate measurement of whole house fabric heat loss which is known as heat transfer coefficient or HTC. Using real-world measurements, we can accurately measure the energy performance of any building.
Testing process
Before the measuring can be carried out our testers gather basic building information such as location, floor area, attachment type, heating system and window type. Current energy consumption data is also collated usually through manual meter readings or smart meter data.
Temperature sensors are then located around the house to measure the internal temperature and humidity over a 3-week period. Where smart thermostats are already installed in the property, it may also be possible to retrieve the temperature data directly from the device.
Once the data is collated at the end of the 3-week measurement period, the temperature sensors are retrieved and readings are downloaded.
All the gathered building information, energy data and temperature readings are uploaded to a BTS secure online system from where a Heat Transfer Coefficient will be calculated along with an energy rating. We can also generate a report that can be presented to the homeowner or resident.
Showing the benefits - Where a baseline test was performed prior to energy-saving works being carried out, any rating improvement will show the performance improvement and quality assurance of the works that have been carried out.
Boroscope Investigation
Boroscope investigations provide a non-destructive and cost-effective means to evaluate the condition of concealed building elements and identify potential issues that may require corrective measures. They help ensure that buildings are safe, functional, and compliant with relevant regulations and standards. The IAA CS testing team are trained professionals with expertise in using boroscope equipment and interpreting the obtained visuals for accurate assessments.
The team will be able to identify potential defects, damage, or deterioration within building components that may not be visible from the exterior. This can also help with detecting issues such as cracks, corrosion, leaks, blockages, or other forms of structural or system failures.
By visually inspecting the building elements, such as ductwork, pipes, cavities, walls, or ceilings, the team can give an accurate assessment of their condition. This helps inform decisions regarding maintenance, repair, or replacement.
The process
Access points, such as small openings or drilled holes, are created in the building components to insert the boroscope. These access points are strategically located to provide visibility of the areas of interest.
The boroscope, which consists of a flexible tube with a camera and light source, is then inserted through the access point into the targeted area. The camera captures images or videos of the internal components, which are transmitted back to a viewing screen for real-time observation.
The tester then navigates the boroscope through the targeted area, manipulating the flexible tube to capture detailed images of the building components.
Reporting
The captured images are documented and analysed by the team with the results collated in an inspection report, which outlines the findings, recommendations, and any necessary remedial actions.
Thermography
Thermography of buildings, also known as infrared thermography or thermal imaging, is a non-destructive technique used to identify areas of heat loss or energy inefficiencies in buildings. It involves the use of an infrared camera to capture thermal images of the building components, which then reveal temperature variations and potential areas of heat loss.
Our testers are qualified and experienced professionals who are trained in the interpretation of thermal images and knowledgeable in building science principles. The testing carried out can help identify various energy-related issues, such as insufficient insulation, air leakage, thermal bridging, and malfunctioning HVAC systems. By pinpointing these areas of heat loss or inefficiency, building owners can take informed measures to improve energy performance, enhance occupant comfort, and reduce energy costs.
Testing process
Before carrying out thermography our testers will ensure that the building is in normal operating conditions. This typically involves closing all windows, doors, and blinds to stabilise the indoor temperature and minimize external influences.
An infrared camera is used to capture thermal images which is calibrated to measure temperature variations accurately. Additionally, factors like camera distance, emissivity settings, and environmental conditions are all taken into account by the team to obtain reliable results.
The tester will then systematically scan the building's envelope, including walls, windows, doors, roofs, and insulation. The camera will detect and capture the emitted infrared radiation, this shows temperature differences on a display.
The captured thermal images are analysed by our team to identify temperature anomalies, such as areas of heat loss or inadequate insulation. These would typically appear as different colours on the thermal image.
Reporting
Our testers will then create a detailed report that highlights the identified areas of concern, recommendations for improvement, and potential energy-saving measures. This report serves as a valuable tool for building owners, energy auditors, and retrofit coordinators to plan and prioritise energy efficiency upgrades.
- Background Ventilation and Air Tightness Testing
- In-situ Thermal Performance Monitoring
- Boroscope investigation
- Thermography
Background Ventilation and Air Tightness Testing
The IAA CS offer a field-based solution to your background ventilation requirements. The IAA have developed a TrustMark approved process that addresses background ventilation requirements under pathway A and B of PAS 2035 and provides an alternative for pathway C whilst not replacing the airtightness testing requirements.
By using The IAA CS ventilation and air tightness testing service you can avoid the unnecessary install of trickle vents and door undercuts where sufficient existing background ventilation is proven. Download this leaflet for further information.
Benefits of the service:
- PAS 2035 compliant
- Reduces cost for your business by evidencing the unnecessary need of additional ventilation
- Available to domestic housing stock including flats, houses and bungalows
- Supports your own existing Pulse Testing Engineers with additional workload
- An efficient process supporting your installation schedule, streamlined planning that may incorporate pre and post testing where applicable on the same day
- Fast results giving clarification of background ventilation requirements
- Assisting with property acquisition and ensuring a proportional approach to background ventilationVolume based pricing is available, contact The IAA CS for more information.
Pre-install
A test must first be carried out on the dwelling as a whole, these results provide insight into the total level of background ventilation across the whole property. As per PAS 2035 and dependent on the result, adding more EEM advanced ventilation interventions may be necessary.
Post-install
Upon completing the installation of the planned EEM works a final background ventilation test is carried out to ensure background air changes go beyond the guidance set out in PAS 2035. In many cases both pre and post testing can take place on the same day for cavity wall, loft or underfloor insulation
Thermal Performance Measuring of Buildings
Thermal performance testing enables you to receive an accurate measurement of whole house fabric heat loss which is known as heat transfer coefficient or HTC. Using real-world measurements, we can accurately measure the energy performance of any building.
Testing process
Before the measuring can be carried out our testers gather basic building information such as location, floor area, attachment type, heating system and window type. Current energy consumption data is also collated usually through manual meter readings or smart meter data.
Temperature sensors are then located around the house to measure the internal temperature and humidity over a 3-week period. Where smart thermostats are already installed in the property, it may also be possible to retrieve the temperature data directly from the device.
Once the data is collated at the end of the 3-week measurement period, the temperature sensors are retrieved and readings are downloaded.
All the gathered building information, energy data and temperature readings are uploaded to a BTS secure online system from where a Heat Transfer Coefficient will be calculated along with an energy rating. We can also generate a report that can be presented to the homeowner or resident.
Showing the benefits - Where a baseline test was performed prior to energy-saving works being carried out, any rating improvement will show the performance improvement and quality assurance of the works that have been carried out.
Boroscope Investigation
Boroscope investigations provide a non-destructive and cost-effective means to evaluate the condition of concealed building elements and identify potential issues that may require corrective measures. They help ensure that buildings are safe, functional, and compliant with relevant regulations and standards. The IAA CS testing team are trained professionals with expertise in using boroscope equipment and interpreting the obtained visuals for accurate assessments.
The team will be able to identify potential defects, damage, or deterioration within building components that may not be visible from the exterior. This can also help with detecting issues such as cracks, corrosion, leaks, blockages, or other forms of structural or system failures.
By visually inspecting the building elements, such as ductwork, pipes, cavities, walls, or ceilings, the team can give an accurate assessment of their condition. This helps inform decisions regarding maintenance, repair, or replacement.
The process
Access points, such as small openings or drilled holes, are created in the building components to insert the boroscope. These access points are strategically located to provide visibility of the areas of interest.
The boroscope, which consists of a flexible tube with a camera and light source, is then inserted through the access point into the targeted area. The camera captures images or videos of the internal components, which are transmitted back to a viewing screen for real-time observation.
The tester then navigates the boroscope through the targeted area, manipulating the flexible tube to capture detailed images of the building components.
Reporting
The captured images are documented and analysed by the team with the results collated in an inspection report, which outlines the findings, recommendations, and any necessary remedial actions.
Thermography
Thermography of buildings, also known as infrared thermography or thermal imaging, is a non-destructive technique used to identify areas of heat loss or energy inefficiencies in buildings. It involves the use of an infrared camera to capture thermal images of the building components, which then reveal temperature variations and potential areas of heat loss.
Our testers are qualified and experienced professionals who are trained in the interpretation of thermal images and knowledgeable in building science principles. The testing carried out can help identify various energy-related issues, such as insufficient insulation, air leakage, thermal bridging, and malfunctioning HVAC systems. By pinpointing these areas of heat loss or inefficiency, building owners can take informed measures to improve energy performance, enhance occupant comfort, and reduce energy costs.
Testing process
Before carrying out thermography our testers will ensure that the building is in normal operating conditions. This typically involves closing all windows, doors, and blinds to stabilise the indoor temperature and minimize external influences.
An infrared camera is used to capture thermal images which is calibrated to measure temperature variations accurately. Additionally, factors like camera distance, emissivity settings, and environmental conditions are all taken into account by the team to obtain reliable results.
The tester will then systematically scan the building's envelope, including walls, windows, doors, roofs, and insulation. The camera will detect and capture the emitted infrared radiation, this shows temperature differences on a display.
The captured thermal images are analysed by our team to identify temperature anomalies, such as areas of heat loss or inadequate insulation. These would typically appear as different colours on the thermal image.
Reporting
Our testers will then create a detailed report that highlights the identified areas of concern, recommendations for improvement, and potential energy-saving measures. This report serves as a valuable tool for building owners, energy auditors, and retrofit coordinators to plan and prioritise energy efficiency upgrades.