Having airtight homes is crucial for ensuring comfort, lower energy bills, and healthier indoor air quality for residents. The new research conducted by CSIRO has shown that Australian homes built in the last four years are up to 50% more airtight compared to those tested in 2015. This is a positive finding as it indicates that homeowners can enjoy the benefits of improved air tightness in their dwellings.
One of the key advantages of adequate air tightness is the prevention of drafts and the reduction of energy bills by up to 20%. Additionally, homes that meet recommended air tightness levels can avoid issues such as condensation, mold, and health problems related to poor indoor air quality. However, it is essential to strike a balance, as homes that are too airtight without controlled ventilation can lead to their own set of problems for residents.
Identifying and Addressing Air Tightness Issues
The research conducted by CSIRO involved testing a total of 233 apartments and detached houses in major Australian cities. The results of the study revealed that leakages were common in new homes, with sources of air leakage identified in areas such as bathroom fans, sliding doors, and poor or missing door seals. This highlights the need for measures to improve air tightness in residential buildings.
To address the common air tightness issues identified in the study, the report provided recommendations for Australian building codes. These recommendations included establishing air tightness standards in the National Construction Code (NCC), requiring controlled ventilation in new buildings, mandating air barriers such as building wraps in all new residences, and offering on-site training and educational resources for builders.
Aligning Air Tightness Levels with Energy Efficiency Ratings
One interesting finding of the research was the alignment of actual air tightness levels with those assumed by the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). This indicates that NatHERS is accurately predicting air tightness within specified levels, which is crucial for assessing the energy efficiency of residential buildings. There is a suggestion to display air tightness values on NatHERS certificates to further emphasize the importance of air tightness in achieving energy efficiency goals.
The research conducted by CSIRO sheds light on the significance of air tightness in Australian homes and the benefits it can bring to homeowners. By addressing common air tightness issues and implementing recommendations to improve air tightness standards, the goal of creating comfortable, energy-efficient, and healthy living spaces can be achieved. It is essential for builders, developers, and policymakers to prioritize air tightness in residential construction to ensure the well-being of residents and the overall sustainability of buildings.
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