In many respects the air barrier industry is still in its infancy and there remains a vital need for education of design professionals, general contractors, installers, and building owners. In addition materials, products, and building codes continue to evolve and change rapidly. Of particular concern is integration of air barrier systems into the building envelope so that windows, doors, curtain walls, and other openings and penetrations are constructed in an airtight and when necessary in a weather-tight configuration. In this session the speaker will review many of the common methods for detailing and installing building envelope components properly. An emphasis will be placed on how the Air Barrier Association of America (ABAA) has developed programs to facilitate the industry in developing, designing, and constructing better buildings which are more comfortable, use less energy, are less costly to maintain, and reduce the risks of the project team members. Attendees will participate in a review of conventional as well as unique and new detailing and installation methods that are both successful and practical as well as some examples of details and installation methods that don’t work. The session will include a review both drawing details and a photographic summary of installed conditions from a variety of projects.

1. To gain an understanding regarding the importance of coordination of the various design disciplines and how building failures are not necessarily caused by the “obvious” issues.
2. To gain an understanding regarding the critical importance of airtightness in buildings and how unintended air leaks can lead to building failure.
3. To demonstrate good detailing and design practices.
4. To explain how big problems can be solved with simple cost-effective solutions when project teams work together.