Diagnostics & Audits

2018 HPC National Conference Session

Using the Pressurized Theatrical Fog Method to Assure Building Performance

Presenter(s)

• 

  Henri Fennell, Jr.

  Manager
  HC Fennell Consulting, LLC

This program introduces the pressurized theatrical fog method for quality assurance and diagnostics in building enclosures. It covers several ways that qualitative fog testing can be performed, including working from the inside or outside, by filling pressurized volumes or washing the surfaces of pressurized or depressurized enclosure surfaces, and how both ends of air leakage paths can be located, a unique advantage of this protocol. It also provides a detailed explanation of how fog testing can be used as an on-going quality assurance process during the construction phase of high-performance building envelopes.
This program also explains how this low-cost, non-destructive method can be used at any time of the year to diagnose air leakage problems in existing buildings.

Learning Objectives:

• Be able to determine, prior to the installation of interior or exterior finishes, if the air barrier is of adequate quality to meet code or project-specific airtightness standards
• Gain an understanding of how the test procedure is performed, what equipment is necessary, and how to address the safety and hazard communication issues related to using this method
• Be able to interpret and document the results of the pressurized theatrical fog method