GOVERNMENT

The air barrier is an important component of a building enclosure system that can improve HVAC system performance, increase occupant comfort, improve smoke/fire/ contaminant control, reduce noise transmission, and perhaps most importantly reduce energy consumption. The reduction in uncontrolled air movement through a building enclosure will also minimize the potential for condensation development within the wall cavity by inhibiting moisture-laden air from contacting enclosure surfaces below the dew point temperature. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) performed a comprehensive study on building air tightness and concluded an air barrier system can reduce heating energy consumption by over 40% in some climates and will reduce heating and cooling loads in all climates. Verification of the air barrier system via performance testing and diagnostic evaluations will ensure the benefits of air tightness are realized by the building end user and owner.