We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to ancestors, country and community. We pay our respects to their Elders both past and present and to their enduring cultures.
One of the most challenging aspects of achieving the Passivhaus standard is ensuring both air and water tightness in a building. Many assume this is solely the builder’s responsibility, but in reality, airtightness begins at the design stage. It requires a clear understanding of the products available on the market and the right approach to detailing, particularly at the junctions and joints of the building envelope. Getting this right is fundamental to delivering a true high-performance home.
As Passivhaus Designers, we know that we cannot create successful details without a deep, practical understanding of how materials are applied and how airtight connections are actually made on-site. It’s not just about drawing the lines, it’s about knowing what works in reality.
Today (19/09/2025), we had the pleasure of attending a training day with Performance Membranes, suppliers of Pro Clima products. For many years, Pro Clima has been a go-to solution for internal and external wrapping systems in Passivhaus and energy-efficient buildings. While there are other good products available, Pro Clima stands out for its ongoing investment in research, training, and education.
We found the training incredibly valuable, and we would highly recommend this experience. It’s not just for builders or tradespeople, architects, designers, and even homeowners planning a renovation or new build to Passivhaus or high-performance standards will benefit from it. Understanding what actually goes into making a building airtight gives you a completely new perspective on design decisions, costs, and long-term durability.
If you’re considering building or renovating to Passivhaus standard or even just want a healthier, more energy-efficient home, getting hands-on knowledge of airtightness and membranes is an eye-opener.
Below are some photos from the day:
