Air Tightness
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| Posted in Energy Efficiency and Durability on
Is plywood wall and roof sheathing with taped joints sufficient as and air-barrier?
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Replies
Bill,
This article suggests probably yes if done correctly. https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/article/airtight-wall-and-roof-sheathing
Bill,
Yes, although using the sheathing as an air-barrier is typically easier on walls than roofs.
On walls you just need to pay attention to the intersections of the walls and other assemblies (foundations, ceilings, openings, etc.).
With roofs it's bit more complicated, and depends on how the roofs are constructed. Most roofs are vented, so air is intentionally introduced below the sheathing. And some unvented roofs can require some way of stopping air from reaching the sheathing to prevent condensation. Roofs usually rely on an interior air-barrier instead.