What is the main consequence of air leaks in a building?

The primary consequence of air leaks in a building is increased utility costs. When air leaks occur, conditioned air can escape from the interior of a building, leading to a loss of energy efficiency. As a result, heating or cooling systems need to work harder to maintain the desired indoor temperature, which increases energy consumption. This heightened energy use directly translates to higher utility bills.

While decreased aesthetic value, lower structural integrity, and higher maintenance needs are all potential concerns related to poor building performance, they are not as directly tied to the immediate consequences of air leaks as increased utility costs. Air leaks primarily impact energy efficiency, and tackling this issue often results in significant financial benefits by reducing energy expenditures.