Air barrier continuity refers to the uninterrupted and sealed construction of the building envelope to prevent the uncontrolled movement of air into or out of the building. It involves ensuring a continuous and properly sealed air barrier throughout the entire building enclosure, including walls, roofs, floors, windows, doors, and penetrations.
The purpose of achieving air barrier continuity is to maintain the desired indoor air quality, enhance energy efficiency, and improve occupant comfort. By preventing air leakage through gaps, cracks, and openings in the building envelope, the air barrier acts as a barrier against the infiltration of outdoor air, as well as the exfiltration of conditioned air from the interior.
To ensure air barrier continuity, it is crucial to consider the design, material selection, installation techniques, and proper detailing of the building envelope. This may involve using appropriate air barrier materials such as membranes, sealants, tapes, or spray foams, as well as meticulous workmanship to achieve tight seals at all transitions, joints, and penetrations.
Regular inspections, testing, and quality control measures are often employed to verify the effectiveness of the air barrier continuity and identify any areas of concern that require attention. Addressing air barrier discontinuities helps improve the overall energy performance of the building, reduce air leakage-related issues, and enhance the comfort and health of occupants.