ilmanvuotuisuus

Ilmanvuotuisuus refers to the unwanted leakage of air into or out of a building. This phenomenon significantly impacts a building's energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and occupant comfort. Air can leak through cracks, gaps, and openings in the building envelope, which includes walls, roofs, windows, doors, and foundations. Common sources of leakage include poorly sealed joints, penetrations for utilities, and aging building materials.

When warm air escapes a building in winter or cooled air escapes in summer, it leads to increased energy consumption for heating and cooling systems as they work harder to maintain desired temperatures. This wasted energy translates directly into higher utility bills. Furthermore, uncontrolled air leakage can introduce pollutants from the outside, such as dust, pollen, and exhaust fumes, negatively affecting indoor air quality and potentially exacerbating respiratory issues.

In humid climates, uncontrolled air movement can lead to moisture condensation within building cavities, which can foster mold growth and compromise the structural integrity of the building. Conversely, air flowing out can create negative pressure within the building, drawing in unconditioned and potentially moist air from crawl spaces or attics. Diagnosing and addressing ilmanvuotuisuus typically involves techniques like blower door testing and infrared thermography to identify leakage points, followed by sealing these openings with appropriate materials like caulk, foam, and weatherstripping. A well-sealed building envelope is crucial for a healthy, comfortable, and energy-efficient indoor environment.