A weather barrier, also known as a building envelope, is a critical component of building construction that helps protect the structure from damage caused by moisture and air infiltration. Moisture intrusion can cause structural damage, mold growth, and other issues that can compromise the safety and health of building occupants.
Proper installation of a weather barrier is critical to ensure its effectiveness. This includes ensuring that all seams and joints are sealed tightly and that the barrier is properly integrated with other building systems, such as windows, doors, and HVAC ducts.
In addition to protecting the building from moisture and air infiltration, weather barriers can also help improve energy efficiency by reducing heat loss and air leakage. This can lead to lower energy costs and a more comfortable indoor environment.
The most commonly used weather barrier materials include:
- House wrap: This is a synthetic material that is typically made from a woven or non-woven polyolefin fabric. It is used as an air and moisture barrier and is installed on the exterior of the building’s sheathing.
- Commonly used brands: Tyvek, Typar, VaproShield, Siga…
- Building paper: Also known as felt paper or tar paper, building paper is a traditional weather-resistant barrier made from asphalt-impregnated paper. It is installed on the exterior of the building’s sheathing and is used to prevent moisture from penetrating the building envelope.
- Liquid-applied membranes: These are fluid-applied materials that are typically applied using a spray gun, roller, or brush. They are used as an air and moisture barrier and are commonly used on concrete and masonry substrates.
- Henry, Tremco, Soprema, BASF…
- Self-adhered membranes: These are peel-and-stick membranes that are used as an air and moisture barrier. They are typically made from rubberized asphalt and are installed on the exterior of the building’s sheathing.
- Vycor, Siga, Soprema, Henry, 3M, Grace, Resisto…
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