Multifamily Air Sealing & Compartmentalization Strategies

The residential International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), ENERGY STAR, LEED, Green Communities and Passive House all use blower door testing to demonstrate tightness of building envelope and individual dwelling units. Air sealing has often left up to the trades, but increasingly stringent tightness targets require us to look at air sealing from the very beginning of the design process.

This session aimed at air sealing in multifamily buildings will explain how air sealing can stop moisture drive, overcome stack effect, save energy, control sound/smell transfer, and improve occupant comfort. More importantly, this session will show how architects lay the groundwork for superior air sealing through their design choices, selection of assemblies, detailing, and spec writing. Testing means and methods will be presented, along with tips and tricks to achieve the best possible air sealing results. The session will include at least 10 minutes of Q&A to field the audience’s toughest air sealing questions.

Lessons Learned

1. Understand the importance of air sealing from a Building Science perspective as well as the perspective of code and rating system compliance.
2. Identify key opportunities for architects to dramatically influence air sealing performance, as measured by blower door compartmentalization testing.
3. Access resources for multifamily air sealing details for a variety of construction types.
4. Evaluate air sealing measures for effectiveness in controlling air movement.

Continuing Education Units (CEUS)

1 Hour in

GBCI (LEED H Specific)
AIA(HSW)
NARI Green
Certified Green Professional (CGP)
AIBD
Certified GreenHome Professional (CGHP)
May be applicable to your state-based design or contractor license*

Instructor:

Capture Steve Klocke is a Senior Sustainability Consultant at Steven Winter Associates, Inc. He is a registered architect with experience in architectural design, construction, and weatherization in residential buildings. He currently specializes in LEED® for Homes and ENERGY STAR certifications and residential energy analysis. Since joining SWA he has supported building science efforts including the US Department of Energy’s Building America research program. Steve trains numerous groups of contractors, architects, developers, and mechanical system designers in best practices for high-performance housing.