Fluid Applied Air and Vapor Barriers offer many performance
advantages over polymeric weather resistive barriers (building wraps), and
traditional asphalt-impregnated felt or paper barriers.
Fluid applied air and vapor barriers are used in all types
of wall construction including over gypsum and cement-based sheathings, OSB,
plywood, CMU, and prepared concrete. Most fluid applied barriers consist of:
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Joint and fastener treatment products that
include options for treating sheathing joints, rough openings, inside and
outside corners, and small cracks
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Fabrics, meshes and tapes used in conjunction
with the joint and fastener treatment products to reinforce the treated areas
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A coating that is spray, roller, or trowel
applied over the entire substrate.
When properly installed fluid applied air and vapor
barriers:
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Effectively block air leakage, reducing energy
cost and increasing occupant comfort
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Reduce condensation through the wall
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Provide a seamless moisture barrier with no
tears, holes, or lap joints
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Protect the sheathing and rough openings from
weather damage during and after construction
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Will not lose their effectiveness due to
long-term weather exposure
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Will not blow off the wall during wind events
Fluid applied air and vapor barriers provide the owner an
effective and economical means of protecting the structure long-term and provide significant performance advantages including:
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Fast application over large surfaces
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Seamless insulation to the building
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Reduce impact on environment
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Long lasting performance
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Installation ease
Self-adhering membranes also offer benefits that should also
be considered when determining the appropriate barrier for the project. Those
advantages will be addressed in a future post.