the results of measurements, there are special requirements in terms of the skills and
experience of those taking the measurements, e.g. by means of authorization by a
national or regional standardization body.
16.3.2
The effects of testing and checking
It can be difficult to anticipate how well the thermal insulation and airtightness of a
completed building will work. There are certain factors involved in assembling the
various components and building elements that can have a considerable impact on
the final result. The effects of transport, handling and storage at the site and the way
the work is done cannot be calculated in advance. To ensure that the intended function
is actually achieved, verification by testing and checking the completed building is
required.
Modern insulation technology has reduced the theoretical heat requirement. This
does mean, however, that defects that are relatively minor, but at important locations,
e.g. leaking joints or incorrectly installed insulation, can have considerable conse-
quences in terms both of heat and comfort. Verification tests, e.g. by means of ther-
mography, have proved their value, from the point of view both of the designer and
the contractor and of the developer, the property manager and the user.
■
For the designer, the important thing is to find out about the function of various
types of structures, so that they can be designed to take into account both working
methods and functional requirements. The designer must also know how different
materials and combinations of materials function in practice. Effective testing and
checking, as well as experiential feedback, can be used to achieve the required
development in this area.
■
The contractor is keen on more testing and inspection in order to ensure that the
structures keep to an expected function that corresponds to established require-
ments in the regulations issued by authorities and in contractual documents. The
contractor wants to know at an early stage of construction about any changes that
may be necessary so that systematic defects can be prevented. During construction,
a check should therefore be carried out on the first apartments completed in a
mass production project. Similar checking then follows as production continues.
In this way systematic defects can be prevented and unnecessary costs and future
problems can be avoided. This check is of benefit both to manufacturers and to
users.
■
For the developer and the property manager it is essential that buildings are checked
with reference to heat economy, maintenance (damage from moisture or moisture
infiltration) and comfort for the occupants (e.g. cooled surfaces and air movements
in occupied zones).
Publ. No. T559382 Rev. a358 – ENGLISH (EN) – June 23, 2009
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16 – Introduction to building thermography
Summary of Contents for Extech i5
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