Õhulekete

Õhulekete refers to unwanted air infiltration or exfiltration in buildings. This phenomenon occurs when air passes through the building envelope, which is the boundary between the conditioned interior and the unconditioned exterior. These leaks can happen through cracks, gaps, and openings in walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, and other building components. The primary drivers for õhulekete are pressure differences, which can be caused by wind, the stack effect (warm air rising), and mechanical ventilation systems.

The consequences of õhulekete can be significant. They contribute to increased energy consumption as heated or cooled air escapes the building and is replaced by unconditioned outside air. This leads to higher utility bills and a reduced comfort level for occupants due to drafts and uneven temperatures. Furthermore, õhulekete can lead to moisture problems, such as condensation within building assemblies, which can foster mold growth and degrade building materials. In terms of indoor air quality, uncontrolled air leakage can draw in pollutants from the outside or from unconditioned spaces like attics and crawl spaces.

Detecting and quantifying õhulekete is typically done through a process called a blower door test. This test depressurizes or pressurizes the building and measures the rate of air leakage. Once identified, õhulekete can be addressed through air sealing techniques, which involve filling gaps and cracks with materials like caulk, spray foam, or weatherstripping. Proper air sealing is a crucial aspect of building science and energy-efficient construction.