Take the First Step Toward Protecting Indoor Air Quality to Save on Energy and Solve Comfort Issues
Winter is on its way, and with it comes complaints of hot or cold spots in buildings or people feeling ill due to dry, irritated throats. Often, the reason for these complaints is undetected air leakage in your building envelope.
The building envelope plays a significant role in influencing indoor air quality (IAQ) by controlling the infiltration of outdoor air pollutants, moisture, and other contaminants into a building while also affecting the ventilation and overall thermal comfort of the indoor environment. Here are some ways in which the building envelope impacts IAQ:
Air Infiltration and Exfiltration: The building envelope consists of the exterior walls, roof, windows, doors, and other elements that separate the indoor environment from the outdoors. A well-sealed and properly insulated building envelope helps to reduce the infiltration of outdoor air pollutants, such as pollen, dust, smoke, and vehicle emissions, into indoor spaces. It also minimizes the exfiltration of conditioned indoor air, helping to maintain a stable indoor environment.
Moisture Control: A key component of the building envelope is moisture control. Proper moisture management can prevent mold and mildew growth, which can negatively affect IAQ. A well-designed building envelope should include moisture barriers and insulation to prevent condensation and moisture intrusion. Moisture issues can lead to health problems and the growth of mold and mildew, which can release harmful spores into the indoor air.
Ventilation: The building envelope influences how fresh outdoor air is introduced into indoor spaces. Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining good IAQ. The envelope should be designed to allow for controlled ventilation while preventing outdoor pollutants from entering the building. Effective ventilation systems, which may include mechanical ventilation or natural ventilation strategies, can help dilute indoor air contaminants and improve air quality.
Indoor Pollutant Sources: The building envelope can also influence the types and sources of indoor pollutants. For example, a poorly designed envelope can result in indoor air being contaminated by emissions from building materials, furniture, and appliances. Additionally, inadequate sealing can lead to the buildup of radon gas or other soil gases, which can negatively impact IAQ.
Thermal Comfort: The building envelope affects the thermal comfort of indoor spaces. Maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity levels can impact IAQ because extreme temperatures and humidity can promote the growth of pollutants like mold and bacteria. Proper insulation and weather sealing in the building envelope help maintain a comfortable and healthy indoor environment.
Knowing that all of the above can result from issues with your building envelope, how can you determine if — and where — your building envelope has issues? The answer is an air barrier audit to identify where leaks occur and an air barrier system to control those leaks. This puts you on the path to lowering your building's energy use by reducing air leakage and eliminating problems that negatively impact comfort and indoor air quality.
Chris Copley is a Field Advisor with Tremco Roofing & Building Maintenance, an OASBO Platinum Sponsor. He can be reached at ccopley@tremcoinc.com or 260.602.2233. Tremco Roofing is part of Tremco Construction Products Group, the industry’s only provider of comprehensive systems and services for all six sides of the building enclosure. You can request a complimentary building envelope consultation by visiting yourroofexperts.com.