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CPD Seminar

It has been recognised that Airtightness is a critical part of building a low energy construction, with additional benefits concerning comfort, health and structural durability. smartAIR is at the fore front of Airtightness construction and would like to offer you the opportunity to avail of a CPD Seminar entitled “Airtightness and Active Moisture Management Using Intelligent Membranes”.  The content is outlined as follows:-

• A basic description of Airtightness and why it is so important
• Consequences of a lack of Airtightness
• Moisture Management and Intelligent Membranes
• How to implement an Airtightness strategy from the design stage to the final test on site
• Some INTELLIGENT solutions for achieving Airtightness including on site details
• Airtightness and Building Energy Ratings
• Video of a blower door test and Airtightness measurement
• Summary

As we insulate our buildings to historically high levels, the negative effect of air leakage increases significantly.  Over the life of a building it must be self sufficient in terms of both thermal performance and moisture management if it is to be healthy and durable through out it’s lifetime.

The Carbon Challenge

We need to act now to reduce our energy consumption. Around 50% of carbon emissions are from the built environment with approximately 50% of this energy used for space heating and cooling. The climates of both Ireland and the UK do not suffer from extremes in low temperatures, but are exposed to extremes in wind pressure.

Whilst insulation is central to low energy construction, air and windtightness must also be central to an energy efficient design strategy to reduce unnecessary heat loss. Insulation levels have increased substantially over the last few decades, but heated air is still escaping and can be pinpointed as a major source of energy loss.

Constructions which are energy efficient, airtight, durable, healthy, ecological and sustainable in every sense of the word should be designed with some form of natural insulation. The benefits of which are not only in the money we save, but in the environment in which we live, particularly as it is estimated that we spend up to 90% of our lives in buildings.

By combining the effectiveness of natural insulation with the high performing pro clima airtight system you are assured of a low energy home. You will also benefit  from a low allergen emitting healthy home which is structurally protected from moisture damage. When insulating your home it is important that you gain the maximum impact from your insulation, while also ensuring you are creating a healthy home. To do this it is important your home is sealed for airtightness. The effectiveness of the insulation and the generation of a healthy living atmosphere is directly dependant on the quality and consistency of the airtight envelope protecting your home.