Address
Malabar NSW 2036
High Performance Consulting & Airtightness Install
Project X
We were approached by the builder of this project as his client wanted a high-performance home that follows Passive House principles — and he wanted guidance on how to achieve the client's desired airtightness target of 2 ACH.
Our Process: From Knockdown to Completion
01
High-Performance Consulting & Brief
Following our advice, the builder opted for an intelligent internal airtightness membrane (Intello) and an external weatherproof membrane. Our knowledge also allowed us to rectify early framing mistakes before they became costly problems.
02
Intello Airtight Membrane Installation
Thousands of staples and airtight tape later, the Intello intelligent vapour membrane was installed across the internal envelope — with every hole, penetration, and junction sealed to prevent air leakage.
03
uPVC Integra Double-Glazed Windows
We installed large, high-quality uPVC Integra double-glazed windows — thermally broken frames that eliminate condensation and cold spots while meeting the architect's performance and aesthetic targets.
04
Brinks HRV System Commissioning
We installed and commissioned the Brinks Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) system, delivering continuous fresh filtered air throughout the home while recovering thermal energy from the exhaust air stream.
05
Blower Door Test — 0.95 ACH Result
With an original aim of 3 ACH, the final Blower Door Test result came in at 0.95 ACH — more than 3× better than the client's target. The owner and architect were thrilled with the verified outcome.
Project Challenges
Working with tradespeople and builders who have no prior experience in high-performance construction is always a challenge. From preventing damaged membranes to elements built in different orders and ways, we always aim to help change mindsets and better educate those wanting to make a difference in their builds.
We always work to meet our clients' performance goals while being as cost-efficient as possible — guiding them to make the best educated decisions. Although we are experts at what we do, we find there is always value in sharing knowledge and building relationships with our high-performance construction industry peers.
On this project we worked closely with the architect and discussed product limitations such as minimum roof pitch.
Results: A Year-Round Comfortable Home
0.95 ACH — 3× lower than the client's original 3 ACH target
Intello intelligent internal airtightness membrane fully installed and taped
External weathertight membrane protecting the full envelope
High-quality uPVC Integra double-glazed windows installed
Brinks HRV heat recovery ventilation system commissioned
Framing completed by 3-carpenter team in 3 months
Project Outcome
After 3 months of framing (we put 3 carpenters on site to fast-track the frame), weathertight and airtight membrane installation, uPVC Integra window installation, and Brinks HRV commissioning — the Blower Door Test result came in at 0.95 ACH. That is 3× lower than the client's original goal of 3 ACH — a result that thrilled both the owner and the architect.
