Airtightness Estimation of Apartment Units using a Multiple Regression Analysis

Abstract

Data on the airtightness of the envelope, which corresponds to the boundary of the overall building, is inputted beforehand into simulations for evaluating energy performance during the design stages of the building. Thus, it can be said that the determining of airtightness values is of the utmost importance especially in view of their key role in evaluating environmental and energy performance. This study proposes the most effective model among feasible models for predicting the airtightness of residential units based on a statistical analysis of empirical models directed at reinforced concrete apartment buildings constructed mainly in Korea. The variables for the statistical analysis include area variables and connection length variables, which represent the geometrical components of the envelope, where air infiltration and leakage actually occur. The correlation between the airtightness of the overall building and the variables is first analyzed to check the variables' impact. A multiple linear regression analysis is performed for major variables selected by the impact analysis, whereby an airtightness prediction model is derived that is suitable for residential units of apartment buildings constructed with reinforced concrete.