Airflow can have a big effect on the comfort level and the energy efficiency of your home. But keeping your home airtight can be just as important. At Alair North Island, we work to ensure that your home maximizes airflow while minimizing energy loss.
Where are air leaks commonly found?
Air leaks can be found around windows and doors but also in more surprising places. Those include venting and plumbing penetrations, at the bottom of framing plates, and even light switches.
Why is air leakage a big deal?
As air exits the home during cold weather months or hot air gets in in the summer, there is an increased condensation rate on building materials. Because air holds water, controlling the airflow protects the home from moisture damage like mold and rot.
Since 1995, it has been a part of the BC Building Code that all homes need a ventilation system installed. This means we can effectively control most of the air going in and out. Doing so allows us to reduce the amount of heat loss and energy consumption. It also means the home is more energy compliant, has a smaller carbon footprint and is healthier for the occupants.
But ventilation systems are only one piece of the puzzle. To make the home airtight, we turn to good framing practices, insulation and poly install and one unique type of technology – AeroBarrier.
Photo Courtesy Island AeroBarrier
What is AeroBarrier?
AeroBarrier is a Greenguard Gold Certified, Low VOC non-toxic, water-borne acrylic sealant. The Aerobarrier is sprayed into a pressurized home and the mist is directed into the areas where leaks are occuring. The acrylic sealant fills and seals holes up to ½” in size.
What are the benefits of AeroBarrier?
Minimizing energy loss and reducing the carbon footprint are just some of the benefits to make your home airtight. But there are other advantages of using AeroBarrier as well. The home will be quieter, fewer bugs will be able to get inside and outside odours and particulates will be less pervasive – especially relevant during fire season.
What does it mean prep for AeroBarrier?
Before AeroBarrier arrives to do their work, we cover all supply and return vent openings. This includes covering the fireplace openings, window sashes and seals, plumbing stacks and drains.
Photo Courtesy AeroBarrier
How are results measured?
We do what’s called a Blower Door Test both before and after AeroBarrier is used. We measure air flow volume to determine how much air is getting through. In many cases, using AeroBarrier can bump the home into a higher step code rating.
At Alair North Island, we work to ensure your home is as energy efficient and comfortable as possible. If you’d like more information about how we use AeroBarrier or other technologies, please do get in touch. You can also visit www.islandaerobarrier.ca.