Air Sealing Flashcards
7 cards from real BPI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Air Sealing flashcards as text
A home has a measured ACH50 of 12 before air sealing. After work is completed, it measures 8. What is the percent improvement?
Answer: 33%
A reduction from 12 to 8 ACH50 represents a 33% improvement: (12-8)/12 × 100 = 33.3%.
What material is NOT recommended for air sealing applications in high-temperature areas near flues or chimneys?
Answer: Latex acoustical sealant
Standard latex acoustical sealant is not rated for high-temperature applications and can off-gas or fail near chimneys and flues.
In the context of BPI standards, what is the 'house as a system' principle as applied to air sealing?
Answer: Understanding that sealing one area can affect pressure, combustion safety, and ventilation throughout the whole home
Air sealing changes building pressure dynamics, potentially affecting combustion appliance safety and indoor air quality, requiring a whole-system approach.
What is the purpose of a 'worst-case depressurization test' performed before air sealing work?
Answer: To determine if combustion appliances are at risk of backdrafting under typical operating conditions
The worst-case depressurization test simulates the most severe pressure conditions to identify combustion appliance backdraft risk before tightening the home.
Which air sealing measure addresses the 'attic bypass' pathway at dropped soffits above kitchen cabinets?
Answer: Sealing the interior top of the soffit with drywall and caulk or foam before insulating
Dropped soffits above cabinets often connect to wall cavities that bypass to the attic; sealing the top of the soffit before insulating stops this pathway.
According to BPI protocols, what minimum ventilation rate should be ensured after aggressive air sealing of a home?
Answer: Mechanical ventilation per ASHRAE 62.2 should be verified or installed
After aggressive air sealing, BPI requires verifying mechanical ventilation meets ASHRAE 62.2 standards to maintain acceptable indoor air quality.
What is the primary function of backer rod in an air sealing application?
Answer: To provide a backing that controls sealant depth and prevents three-sided adhesion in wide gaps
Backer rod fills wide gaps to control the depth of sealant application and prevents three-sided adhesion, which causes premature sealant failure.