Thursday, April 30, 2026

10 Years of Mid-Construction Airtightness Testing–Lessons Learned & Stories to Tell

Presented by Torsten Ely | M.Sc., Dipl.-Ing.

Associate Senior Energy & Sustainability Analyst with RDH Building Science

Have you wondered what makes a truly airtight building? Torsten Ely brings 10 years of hands-on experience in mid-construction airtightness testing to life, sharing insights, practical tips, and unforgettable anecdotes.

What You’ll Learn:
•    Simplified design strategies that make a difference.
•    Common pitfalls: avoid penetrating the air barrier with structural elements.
•    The real role of spray foam—it’s not a miracle solution!
•    Why testing early is a game-changer.
•    Building a culture of airtightness: Craftsmanship and awareness.
•    Tools of the trade: Smoke, IR cameras, and showing the site team the “aha moments”
•    Long-term impact: Step code compliance, condensation risks management, and lasting durability.
•    New kid on the block: Drone with IR camera mounted

Don’t miss out! Gain actionable advice, explore real-world case studies, and learn how to be part of the solution—before the dust (literal and metaphorical) settles. Bring your curiosity and enjoy lunch while diving into the secrets of airtight construction!

Let’s talk air barriers, sealing strategies, and why airtightness deserves respect.

With over 15 years of experience in the sustainability and high-performance building sector, Torsten Ely is a Senior Consultant specializing in energy modelling, energy auditing, embodied carbon analysis, and large-building airtightness testing. He brings deep technical expertise in Passive House design and advanced building-science practices, providing performance-driven guidance for complex multifamily and institutional developments across British Columbia.

RAIC members will receive 1 AIBC CES Core Learning Unit for attending.

LOCATION:    Fireside Grill
4509 West Saanich Road, Victoria BC
AGENDA:       11:30 – 12:00     Registration and networking
12:00 – 1:15       Lunch
12:15 – 1:15       Guest Speaker Presentation
COST:             $55.00 for pre-registered CSC Members and guests of CSC members
$60.00 for non-members
$25.00 for students

Please “Reply”  to this email (vancouverisland@csc-dcc.ca) if you would like to attend the luncheon, and payment options will be emailed to you.