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Careful design detailing is required to improve the air-tightness performance of a dwelling house - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 9 - 2009
Question 9
Careful design detailing is required to improve the air-tightness performance of a dwelling house. (a) Identify three possible air leakage routes in a dwelling hous... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Careful design detailing is required to improve the air-tightness performance of a dwelling house - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 9 - 2009
Step 1
Identify three possible air leakage routes
Answer
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Junction of Concrete Ground Floor and External Concrete Block Wall
- Air Barrier Continuity: Ensure that the seal is maintained between Wall A and Floor B with a flexible sealant (C).
- Seal Skirting: The joint between Skirting and Floor should also have a flexible sealant (C).
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Suspended Timber Ground Floor and External Concrete Block Wall
- Air Barrier Continuity: Maintain a tight seal between Wall A and Floor B with a flexible sealant (C).
- Seal Skirting: Similar to the first route, the junction between Skirting and Floor must be sealed with a flexible sealant (C).
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Window Cill/Frame/Board and External Concrete Block Wall
- Air Barrier Continuity: Apply flexible sealant (C) to all interfaces between the internal air barrier (A) and the window frame (B).
- Seal External Interface: Ensure any external interface between the external wall (A) and the window frame is also sealed with a flexible sealant (C).
Step 2
Discuss in detail two advantages of improving the air-tightness performance of a dwelling house
Answer
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Reduced Energy Loss:
Improving air-tightness significantly decreases uncontrolled air infiltration and exfiltration. This leads to better temperature regulation within the house, reducing the need for heating and cooling systems to operate excessively. Consequently, energy consumption is lowered, which translates into cost savings on energy bills. -
Enhanced Indoor Air Quality:
By improving the air-tightness of a dwelling house, the need for constant air exchange through unplanned leaks is minimized. This allows for a more controlled airflow and ensures that fresh air is introduced effectively through designed ventilation systems, leading to a healthier indoor environment.