Trends in building and ductwork airtightness in 16 countries

Purpose of the work

This work presents an overview and comparison of building and ductwork airtightness trends across 16 countries. It focuses on the national regulations, requirements, and drivers promoting airtightness in buildings and ductwork, and how airtightness is included in energy performance calculations.

Method of approach

National experts and researchers involved in airtightness testing and building standards in 16 countries have written an article with the same template (VIPs 45.XX). This work make a comparison of national requirements, airtightness metrics, the role of airtightness in energy calculations, testing protocols, and guidelines for airtight construction. The document also looks into voluntary programs and financial incentives that promote airtightness.

Content of the contribution

The presentation will cover:

• National requirements and drivers of building and ductwork airtightness in the 16 countries.
• Different airtightness metrics used to quantify building and ductwork performance.
• The inclusion of airtightness in energy performance calculations and the role of testing protocols.
• A summary of building airtightness tests performed and public databases available.
• The list of guidelines to build airtight buildings and ductworks in various countries.

Results and assessment of their significance

The analysis revealed that airtightness regulations are more common for buildings than ductwork. Only a few countries have mandatory requirements for ductwork airtightness, while building airtightness requirements are more widespread. There is also a variation in how airtightness is taken into account in energy performance calculations, with some countries using stringent default values to encourage airtightness testing. Guidelines for building airtightness are available in most countries, but fewer have developed similar texts for ductwork.

Conclusions

There is a growing awareness of the importance of airtightness, especially for buildings. However, ductwork airtightness is still less regulated, despite its impact on energy use and indoor air quality. More efforts are needed to promote both building and ductwork airtightness, with additional testing, stricter regulations, and more comprehensive guidelines likely to follow in the coming years (AIVC TN73).

For further information please contact Valérie Leprince at: valerie.leprince@cerema.fr