The assessment of a newly constructed property’s airtightness is a process that involves measuring the rate at which air leaks from the building envelope. This evaluation utilizes specialized equipment to pressurize or depressurize the building and quantify the air changes per hour (ACH) or airflow rate at a specific pressure. As an illustration, this process can determine if a new home meets energy efficiency standards or building code requirements related to air leakage.
Undertaking this evaluation is crucial for several reasons. It helps to ensure the energy efficiency of the building, reducing heating and cooling costs. It also contributes to improved indoor air quality by minimizing the infiltration of pollutants and allergens. Furthermore, these evaluations ensure compliance with building regulations and can identify construction defects that may lead to long-term structural issues or moisture problems. Historically, the focus on building airtightness has increased with growing awareness of energy conservation and sustainable building practices.