Pre-Drywall Blower-Door Test Checklist for Builders
A useful pre-drywall airtightness test needs a continuous pressure boundary, controlled temporary openings, full access, stable site conditions, and someone ready to seal identified leaks.
Written and reviewed by Jesse Cummings, NRCan Registered Energy Advisor. Reviewed July 12, 2026.
The useful test happens before leakage paths disappear behind drywall and finishes. I identify leakage with the site lead and provide a clear list of the areas that need attention.
Have the crew and compatible sealing materials ready. They can repair accessible leaks during the visit and see which repairs improve the result.
The visit also gives the team practical feedback on the air barrier and shows whether the project is tracking toward the final airtightness target. You receive a leakage list and Mid-Construction Verification Report.
Mid-construction testing requirements and documentation vary by municipality and project. Confirm the required timing and form with the building department; I will confirm the test setup for the site.
Builder drawing checklist
Start the permit package with coordinated drawings, assemblies, openings, and mechanical inputs.
Occupancy energy-file checklist
Prepare final project information and site conditions for closeout.
Blower-door testing
Review my diagnostic and final airtightness testing service.
Make the pressure boundary testable.
- Install and close exterior windows and doors where practical
- Close fireplace dampers, attic hatches, crawlspace access, and other exterior openings
- Temporarily control unfinished HVAC supply, return, exhaust, bath-fan, range-hood, HRV/ERV, dryer, and passive-inlet openings
- Fill plumbing traps with water or cap unfinished rough-ins, and seal floor drains or sumps as directed
- Tell me about missing doors or windows, intentionally incomplete openings, suites, party walls, or separated test zones before the visit
Prepare the worksite for a stable test.
- Keep a clear parking and unloading area near the building
- Provide access to every suite, attic area, basement or crawlspace, and likely leakage location
- Provide an accessible grounded 120-volt receptacle and confirm any generator plan with me before the visit
- Identify fireplaces, flues, combustion-air openings, and temporary fuel-fired heaters, then follow my instructions for equipment shutdown before testing
- Pause entry and exit through exterior doors during the test, and stop dust-producing or hazardous work
- Keep workers clear of the blower-door fan and test equipment
Have someone available to act on the findings.
- Assign the builder, site lead, insulator, or air-sealing trade to attend
- Have compatible sealants, tapes, membranes, and tools available
- Review windows, rim areas, service penetrations, and transitions with me
- Photograph or mark repairs that need follow-up
- Do not tape a direct-vent gas fireplace or seal designed ventilation or combustion openings
Carry the result into the rest of construction.
- Record the test stage and temporary conditions
- Complete repairs that could not be made during the visit
- Protect the air barrier from later electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work
- Schedule the final test when the completed home is ready
Send the drawings. Get a clear quote.
Send the drawing set or a share link. Include the address, municipality, current stage, and target dates. I’ll confirm any missing inputs and quote the project by stage.