Conclusion

Airtightness is an increasingly important part of a ‘whole house’ approach to building. Airtight buildings will be more comfortable for occupants and also be more energy efficient. Testing for airtightness will also be an integral part of compliance with building regulations, as well as the Energy Saving Trust’s best practice standards.

Airtightness must be addressed at both the design and construction stages to be effective. Specifications must clearly address airtightness and subcontracts should include a responsibility for carrying out the necessary sealing work. Gaps in contracts can lead to gaps in the finished dwelling.

Airtightness detailing should be easy to achieve during the construction stage. Many of these measures can be adapted to existing dwellings, although it may be more difficult to gain access to the air leakage paths if they are hidden by fixtures and fittings.

Following the guidance in this report will help to achieve the Energy Saving Trust’s best practice airtightness performance in new dwellings. It will also significantly reduce air leakage in existing dwellings.

Remember: build tight – ventilate right!