How to limit air leakage when building?

Air leakage, also known as infiltration, is the unintended movement of air in and out of a building through gaps and cracks in the envelope. Air leakage can occur in new builds as well as in existing buildings, and it can have a significant impact on the energy efficiency and comfort of a building. In this blog post, we will discuss some ways to limit air leakage throughout your build to improve the energy performance of your home.

1. Design for airtightness: One of the most effective ways to limit air leakage is to design your build for airtightness from the outset. This means paying attention to the details of the envelope, such as the joints between walls, floors, and roofs, and the connections between windows and doors and the surrounding framing. Airtightness can be achieved through the use of sealants, gaskets, and other air-sealing products, as well as through the use of airtight construction techniques, such as the use of continuous insulation.

2. Use high-quality windows and doors: Choosing high-quality windows and doors can also help to limit air leakage. Look for products that are designed for airtightness and that have good seals around the frames. You should also consider the use of weatherstripping or other sealing products around the edges of the frames to further reduce air leakage.

3. Install mechanical ventilation: While it is important to limit air leakage, it is also important to ensure that your home has adequate ventilation to maintain good indoor air quality. Installing a mechanical ventilation system, such as an exhaust fan or an air-to-air heat recovery system, can help to control the flow of air in and out of your home and reduce the risk of air leakage.

4. Test for airtightness: Once your build is complete, it is a good idea to test for airtightness to ensure that you have achieved the desired level of airtightness. This can be done through a blower door test