When it comes to constructing buildings, waterproofing is an important aspect, especially for huge residential and commercial buildings. This is why, instead of using ordinary sealers and paints, builders highly recommend the use of fluid-applied membrane air- as well as vapor-barriers.
However, such waterproofing solutions are relatively new in the construction industry. And many homeowners are not yet aware of the efficiency of fluid-applied membrane air barriers in terms of controlling the movement of air and water through building assemblies.
And perhaps, you are reading this because you are curious about its function and its benefits?
What is a fluid membrane air barrier?
According to the Air Barrier Association of America (ABAA), a fluid-applied membrane air barrier is a material designed to control the movement of air throughout a building assembly. And for the material to qualify as a functional air barrier, it must meet standard specifications of less than 1.56 pounds per square foot @ 0.004CFM per square foot of air permeability tested by ASTM E2178-01.
Fluid-applied membrane air barriers were first introduced in the mid-1980s and were originally a Canadian-developed technology for waterproofing and as part of an energy conservation initiative.
Fifteen years later it was launched in the US and is now mandatory in 12 states under the Energy Code.
In addition, early FAABs were considered heavy-duty, requiring a thick wet film or dry film application. It is also commonly used for large commercial buildings. And it is one of many types of air barrier materials available on the market today, such as Prosoco’s R-Guard MVP Liquid Applied Air and Water Resistive Barrier .
Other forms of air barriers include self-adhesive sheet materials and mechanically fastened building wrappers (commonly used for residential applications).
Difference Between Air and Vapor Barrier
There is a lot of confusion among home and building owners about wall barriers, one of which is the difference between an air and a vapor barrier.
Essentially, the air barrier acts as a device to limit the movement of air within the building, while the vapor barrier prevents the movement of moisture. And compared to the former – which has a permeability of 0.004CFM per square foot – the latter has a permeability of less than 0.01.
But keep in mind that there are liquid-applied air barriers available on the market today that have low permeability and may also qualify as vapor barriers. Meanwhile, which barrier to use will depend on the typical climate of the area where the structure is located. The design of the wall must also be considered.
Benefits of using a fluid-applied membrane air barrier
Unlike other forms of air barrier, fluid-applied membrane air barrier is the most popular – and for many good reasons. This material basically offers many features that are beneficial for both commercial and residential work. And one aspect that really makes it stand out is that it is convenient to install.
But that’s not the only benefit of a liquid-applied membrane air barrier.
Here are a few more: Affordability Easy to apply Energy savings Air quality Low maintenance
Since this material prevents air leakage from air conditioners, the mechanical systems required for a building – particularly the heating and air-conditioning systems – are smaller. This, in turn, reduces the cost of building said systems.
Are there any drawbacks to this?
Like any other product, liquid-applied membrane air barriers also have disadvantages. These include the need for skilled and professional personnel and the high cost.
Here’s why: Requires a skilled applicant High application costs
To ensure that the material will work efficiently, the solution must be applied evenly. Thus, this will not only require special equipment like a spray gun, but it will also require a skilled and experienced person who can apply the air barrier with the exact thickness.
But the thing is that there are not enough qualified people who can do this kind of work. And it will be difficult to find such people.