Which connection in a building envelope is typically a significant source of air leakage?

The roof-to-wall connection is often a significant source of air leakage due to several factors related to the design and construction of building envelopes. This area is critical because it represents the transition between different building elements, where structural components meet.

In many buildings, the roof structure must integrate with the wall system in a way that can create gaps or inconsistencies in the airtightness. These gaps can occur due to the settlements of the building over time, thermal expansion and contraction, or imperfections in the building materials and construction practices. Additionally, this connection can experience challenges due to the types of materials used, and the complexity of the roof design can also contribute to difficulties in achieving a tight seal.

Moreover, it is essential to maintain airtightness in the roof-to-wall connection to prevent unwanted air infiltration, which can impact the overall energy efficiency of the building, leading to increased heating and cooling costs. Proper sealing and insulation techniques are vital in this connection to mitigate air leakage effectively. Therefore, understanding the importance of this connection in air leakage assessment is crucial for maintaining the integrity of a building's airtightness.