4. How to improve airtightness?

In new-build projects, it is strongly recommended that air permeability be taken into account right from the design phase, and that owners, contractors and builders be made aware of the problem. The implementation of a quality approach throughout the construction process, preferably with measurement at handover, should make it possible to achieve good levels of airtightness.

In renovation projects, relatively simple solutions can be implemented to correct airtightness defects in existing buildings, such as sealing visible openings and replacing seals around openings (entrance doors, windows, attic access hatches, electrical panels, etc.).

The blower door test is not an end in itself, but a valuable tool and a step in a quality approach. Well before the test is carried out, a number of points need...