Short Answer #
Airtightness reduces uncontrolled air leakage, helping maintain indoor temperatures, improve energy efficiency, and prevent draughts.
Overview #
Most homes allow air to leak through gaps in the building envelope. While this might seem minor, it can significantly impact comfort and performance.
Key Points #
- Airtightness reduces heat loss, eliminates draughts, improves temperature consistency, and supports ventilation systems.
- Leaky homes allow heat to escape quickly, cold air to enter unpredictably, and heating systems to work harder.
- Airtightness and ventilation work together. Airtightness controls where air moves, while ventilation ensures fresh air is introduced properly.
- Airtightness is one of the biggest factors in energy performance, comfort, and indoor air quality.
Common Questions #
Will an airtight home feel stuffy? No, when paired with proper ventilation.
Is airtightness standard in NZ? Not typically at high levels.
Next Step #
If you are planning a new home, our team can help you understand what level of performance is possible and where to focus your budget.