Once poorly understood by the mainstream building industry, airtightness is now increasingly seen as one of the most crucial objectives on any building project. Not only is it vital for energy efficiency, it’s also key for thermal comfort and for protecting a building’s structure from dampness and mould. In this comprehensive guide to airtightness, we look at why it’s so important, how exactly it’s measured, and most importantly, how to achieve it on site.

Leading sustainable building material supplier Ecomerchant recommends that anyone choosing insulation materials consider the ability of the material to prevent overheating and smooth out internal temperatures in their building.

A new low energy and airtight extension is currently on site at the TLC Nursing Home in Maynooth, Co Kildare.

Saint-Gobain has launched its ‘Multi Comfort’ building concept at Ecobuild in London. Click here to see a short video outlining the idea, which is based on passive house principles.