Airtight On-Budget – Fundamentals of Air Sealing

Intro hands-on air sealing workshop for owner-builders and pros, covering air barrier basics, common leaks, and Step Code‑ready practices.
Date: Thursday February 19, 2026
Time: 5:30pm-8:00pm
Location: Vancouver Island University – Building 108: Windsor Plywood Trades Discovery Centre, room 105
About This Event
This introductory, hands-on workshop provides a practical overview of air sealing fundamentals and the critical role a continuous air barrier plays in achieving BC Energy Step Code (ESC) requirements. Designed for owner-builders and building professionals who are newer to high-performance construction, the session focuses on building a clear understanding of why air sealing matters and how it is successfully implemented on site.
Participants will observe and interact with live demonstrations using construction mock-ups to see how air barrier continuity is established at key junctions. The session will highlight common air leakage failure points, tested air sealing details, and how seemingly small changes during construction can have a significant impact on overall building performance. The value of mid-construction blower door testing will be emphasized, along with the importance of early collaboration between builders, trades, and energy advisors.
By the end of the session, participants will be able to identify the main components of a continuous air barrier system, recognize typical leakage locations in residential buildings, and better understand how coordinated planning and execution supports energy efficiency, comfort, and compliance with higher ESC steps.
Notes
Event is free of charge, but you must pre-register.
This event is pending approval for Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Points through BC Housing
Brought to you by the Community Energy Association and the Regional District of Nanaimo, in partnership with the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) and Vancouver Island University (VIU).