Air Tightness

Airtightness primarily focuses on the elimination of all unintended gaps and cracks on the external envelope of the building. Airtightness is an essential part of creating a healthy, comfortable, energy-efficient living environment.

In contrast, air leakage is where leaks occur due to gaps and cracks that should not be there in the first place. This can account for up to 50% of all heat losses through the external envelope of a building. There are many factors which can cause air leakage such as poor build design, poor workmanship, or indeed the inappropriate materials used. It is important to remember that an airtight building does not mean it is hermetically sealed, rather it means that the air leakage has been reduced to a minimum.

SHBB have used fabric membranes, foams and sealing tapes in many projects to satisfy the air permeability of homes to allow them achieve the best results possible.

*NB. Where air permeability falls below 5m3/hr/m2 Demand controlled ventilation system of Mechanical Ventilation heat recovery MUST be installed.