Facade / Continuous air-leakage control

Air barrier

/ɛər ˈbær.i.ər/noun

From Greek aēr, “air,” and Old French barriere, “obstruction.”

Definition

A continuous layer of materials, tapes, and sealed joints that stops uncontrolled air from leaking into or out of a building.

Roof-to-wall transitionContinuous air barrierTaped window openingSill gasket
Fig. 93 — Air barrier: schematic studyNOT TO SCALE
Illustrative photograph of air barrier
Illustrative study — Air barrier · AI-generatedSAMPLE IMAGE
Photo study — Air barrier · AI-generated00:06

Structural & construction notes

Air leaks carry far more moisture into walls than vapor diffusion does. The barrier must be continuous across walls, roof, foundation, and every opening, and is often checked with a blower-door test.

An educational reference. Project-specific design requires professional guidance.