Beyond the Sill Seal: A Modern Approach to Air Barriers for Long-Lasting Building Enclosures with ABAA!

The effectiveness of air barriers in building enclosures is critical for energy efficiency, comfort, and indoor air quality. Traditional gasketing materials, such as sill seals, have long been utilized to manage air infiltration. However, these materials often fall short in meeting modern standards for airtightness and durability, leading to issues with thermal performance and moisture control over time. This presentation will introduce emerging professionals to advanced air barrier systems, highlighting why foundational knowledge in these systems is essential for resilient building design. This session will examine the limitations of traditional gasketing in creating reliable air barriers and will guide attendees through a foundational overview of air barrier materials, assemblies, and testing requirements. Attendees will gain insight into the building science behind effective air barriers, understand the realities behind common installation practices, and explore a range of installation techniques for various air barrier technologies. We will also discuss design considerations for climate-specific applications, addressing how innovative air barrier systems outperform older methods in diverse environmental contexts.

Learning Objectives:

1.  Describe the limitations of traditional gasketing materials like sill seals in creating effective air barriers.
2. Gain foundational knowledge in the types, applications, and testing requirements of modern air barrier materials.
3. Explore essential building codes and standards for air, water, and vapor barriers to ensure compliance and best practices.
4. Investigate design and installation techniques to achieve effective air barrier performance in various climates and building applications.

Register for the event today!