Test Providers

Thermal Performance (including Condensation Risk Analysis)

Assessment is required for the elements of structure, floor, walls, roof, and windows with U values required for the performance of the element, together with an assessment of the linear junctions and details for thermal bridging etc. known as Psi values.

This data is used to demonstrate the performance of the fabric and is used to develop the SAP calculations required to comply with The Building Regulations.

Test methods and procedures: • Calculations for U values and condensation risk analysis to be carried out according to BS

EN ISO 13788:2002. • Methods and procedures given in BS EN

ISO 1211-1, BS EN ISO 13370 and BR497 to be used to assess the thermal modelling and calculation procedures when preparing Psi values.

Acoustic Testing

Acoustic performance of the separating walls and floors (dividing wall or floor between rooms of separate occupancy) needs to be demonstrated to meet the requirement of The Building Regulations.

Insitu/on site testing of completed projects for the separating wall junctions is required to demonstrate airborne sound performance. Testing for the separating floor junctions is required to demonstrate airborne and impact sound.

• Airborne Sound Insulation tests to be conducted in accordance with BS EN ISO 140-4:1998 and rated in accordance with

BS EN ISO 717-1: 1997. • Impact Sound Insulation tests to be conducted in accordance with BS EN ISO 140-7:1998 and rated in accordance with BE EN ISO 717-2: 1997.

Airtightness Testing

Airtightness testing (measured as m³h/m² at 50 pascals) is the recognised method used to measure the total air lost through leaks in the building fabric. With the introduction of tougher regulations, building designs may consider airtightness early in the construction process to ensure compliance.

An airtightness test is completed towards the end of the construction process, in order to meet Building Regulations/Standards. The results of the test are used within SAP calculations and can influence a new buildings overall energy rating.

Façade/Weathertightness Testing

Testing for the external cladding (including weathertightness) will be driven by the façade system selected. Data (which may be held by the cladding supplier) should cover the following:

• Hygrothermal performance • Wet/freeze/thaw characteristics • Water absorption capillary test • Hard body impact tests

Tests can be carried out on a particular build system if required or the façade supplier does not have test data, but that is not explored here.

Etex Group

TEST PROVIDERS

There are numerous test houses and building physics consultants who can carry out the testing and assessments required. Test houses can have significant lead times based on the type of testing required, so test houses outside the UK may need to be considered. Validation providers generally expect any tests to be carried out in a UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) accredited laboratory or a national equivalent i.e. COFRAC for test houses in France.

UKAS is a signatory of the EA (European Accreditation) Multilateral Agreement (EA MLA) which is a signed agreement between the EA Members whereby the signatories recognise and accept the equivalence of the accreditation systems in their countries.