WHY DOES AIR TIGHTNESS MATTER?
In many older homes, numerous small gaps exist, allowing unconditioned air to seep in while conditioned air escapes. This undesirable airflow not only wastes energy but also diminishes the efficiency of heating and cooling systems, potentially leading to moisture issues and allowing dust, pollen, and other pollutants to infiltrate the home.
While some of these air gaps, such as those around poorly sealed windows or doors, may be easily identifiable, many others are less conspicuous. These gaps can occur in various areas, including connections between walls, floors, or ceilings, as well as through utility lines like plumbing and electrical conduits.
Additionally, they may be found around features such as chimneys, skylights, vents, and light switches. In an air / water tight home, contractors meticulously assemble and install products to eliminate these gaps, ensuring that unwanted air exchange between the conditioned interior and unconditioned exterior is minimized.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COSTS?
Put simply, wasted energy equates to wasted money. If conditioned air continuously escapes your home through unwanted gaps, you're essentially throwing money away.
It's important to recognize that while airtight construction significantly boosts energy performance, it also entails additional expenses. Achieving airtightness requires skilled contractors and thoughtful architectural design, which naturally come at a price. Nevertheless, the long-term savings far outweigh the initial costs.
Furthermore, airtight homes necessitate mechanical ventilation systems to ensure sufficient filtered fresh air circulation while removing excess moisture and CO2 from the interior. The benefits of the clean air provided by these systems far exceed the costs of installation.