RISA has introduced a new approach to quantifying air infiltration, aimed at improving clarity in draught-related disputes.
Draught complaints remain a common post-installation issue for installers, often escalating from initial concerns into payment disputes. One of the main challenges is evidencing whether a perceived issue is due to installation, product performance, or external factors.
Lee Galley, Inspection Manager at RISA, said: “In many cases, the installer has followed best practice, but there is no clear way to demonstrate that to the customer.
“Without third-party involvement, it becomes a complete impasse, which can delay payments or lead to additional costs.”
Air leakage issues are typically assessed through on-site inspection, where experienced professionals identify potential causes such as sealing failures, installation defects or product limitations. However, these assessments are often based on professional judgement rather than measurable data.
While windows and doors are tested under standards such as BS 6375, these results are achieved in controlled environments and may not reflect real-world installation conditions. Variables such as installation quality, building movement and environmental exposure can all influence performance.
To address this, RISA has developed a pulse air pressure testing methodology that measures air infiltration directly. The process begins with a baseline test of a property’s overall air permeability, followed by a second test where windows and doors are isolated using specialist sealing methods.
The results are analysed to quantify the air leakage attributable specifically to installed products.
Galley added: “This approach allows us to move beyond assumption and demonstrate performance with measurable data. It gives all parties a clearer understanding of where air leakage is occurring and how significant that contribution is.”
The method is designed to support more objective assessments, particularly in complex disputes where responsibility is unclear.
