What is required to achieve low maximum air leakage rates in new construction?

Achieving low maximum air leakage rates in new construction is primarily dependent on effective air barrier products. These products are designed to minimize airflow between the conditioned indoor environment and the outdoor environment, which is essential for controlling energy efficiency and maintaining comfort within a building.

Air barriers work by blocking unintentional air movement, thus preventing both unwanted airflow that could increase heating or cooling costs and energy loss. Proper installation of these barriers helps ensure that the building envelope is sealed tightly, ultimately contributing to a stable indoor environment and reducing the burden on HVAC systems.

While regular maintenance checks, increased ventilation, and higher insulation levels are important for overall building performance and energy efficiency, they do not directly address the need for an effective air barrier. Regular maintenance may help ensure existing systems function efficiently, increased ventilation can help maintain indoor air quality but might allow for more air leakage if not controlled properly, and higher insulation levels primarily focus on thermal efficiency rather than air movement control. Therefore, the correct response emphasizes the role of air barrier products as critical in achieving the goal of low maximum air leakage rates in new construction.