What is a key factor in reducing air leakage in a building?

Sealing all gaps and cracks is a central factor in reducing air leakage within a building. Air leakage occurs through unsealed spaces, such as cracks around windows, doors, electrical outlets, and other penetrations in the building envelope. By effectively sealing these areas, which includes using caulk or weatherstripping, the building can maintain better controlled indoor air quality and energy efficiency.

When gaps and cracks are sealed, it helps prevent unwanted outside air from entering and conditioned air from escaping, thus reducing heating and cooling costs. This approach is critical for enhancing comfort and improving the overall performance of the building's envelope.

In contrast, enhancing ventilation systems may improve indoor air quality but doesn’t directly address air leakage. Similarly, using high VOC paints is not relevant to air leakage as it pertains to painting quality and the off-gassing of volatile organic compounds rather than the physical structure of the building. Installing more windows might actually increase the potential for air leaks if not properly sealed, as windows can be a common source of air infiltration if they are not well-fitted.