A diagnostic procedure used to measure the airtightness of a building envelope, specifically in a region of Maryland, employs specialized equipment to pressurize or depressurize a structure. This process quantifies air leakage, indicating how much outside air enters a building unintentionally through cracks and openings. The geographical location serves as a parameter for service availability and potentially impacts testing costs due to regional pricing variations.
The implementation of this testing offers several advantages. It can identify areas of energy loss, leading to improved energy efficiency and reduced utility bills. Furthermore, it can enhance indoor air quality by minimizing drafts and controlling moisture intrusion, which in turn prevents mold growth. Historically, such evaluations have gained prominence alongside increasing awareness of energy conservation and building performance standards.