Ilmatiivien

Ilmatiivien is a Finnish term that translates to "air tighteners" or "air seals." It refers to components and techniques used in construction and manufacturing to prevent the uncontrolled passage of air through a building envelope or a product. The primary goal of ilmatiivien is to enhance energy efficiency by minimizing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer, thereby reducing the need for heating and cooling. Beyond energy savings, proper air sealing contributes to improved indoor air quality by preventing the ingress of dust, pollutants, and moisture. It also plays a crucial role in preventing condensation within building structures, which can lead to mold growth and material degradation.

Common applications of ilmatiivien in buildings include sealing around windows and doors, penetrations for pipes and electrical wiring, and joints between different building materials like walls, roofs, and foundations. Materials used for ilmatiivien can range from specialized tapes and membranes to caulks, foams, and gaskets. In product design, ilmatiivien is employed to ensure the proper functioning and longevity of appliances, vehicles, and electronic devices by maintaining specific internal atmospheric conditions and preventing leakage. The effectiveness of ilmatiivien is often assessed through air leakage testing methods.