West Work, together with office neighbor Stull + Lee, had a wonderful workshop with SIGA on building air tightness and moisture management. Here is a summary of our key takeaways.

When it comes to improving a building’s energy and moisture performance, the first thing to check is air infiltration. Even minor holes and punctures contribute significantly more to energy loss than inefficient windows or mechanical systems. Addressing these infiltrations, identified through precise blower door tests, is a more cost-effective initial step before delving into broader sustainable design strategies, like integrating renewable energy sources.

When it comes to improving a building’s energy and moisture performance, the first thing to check is air infiltration. Even minor holes and punctures contribute significantly more to energy loss than inefficient windows or mechanical systems. Addressing these infiltrations, identified through precise blower door tests, is a more cost-effective initial step before delving into broader sustainable design strategies, like integrating renewable energy sources.

Emphasizing air tightness not only enhances energy performance but also plays a crucial role in preventing unwanted moisture transfer within the building envelope. These little details impact the longevity of a building, not to mention the health of occupants.

John Rockwell from SIGA gave us a hands-on envelope detailing workshop. Staff members gained practical experience utilizing SIGA’s weather, air, and vapor tapes to effectively seal a window assembly. The session emphasized the importance of meticulous tape application, considering sequence, overlapping, and corner treatments to ensure a tight seal and optimal fitting of the window frame within the opening.

Paying careful attention to air tightness during design and construction phases improves energy efficiency and also safeguards the building and people’s health, marking a pivotal step in sustainable building practices.