Testing Fluid-applied Air and Water Barriers

Fluid-applied air barrier/water-resistive barrier (WRB) membranes for use in exterior wall systems are relatively new products and are increasingly being specified and used by designers and building owners. Their integrity and continuity is essential, given this single material may perform up to three critical functions and will govern the performance of the wall system in terms of moisture migration and waterproofing. The lack of widely accepted industry standards material property performance for these products makes it difficult for designers to compare products form different manufacturers. Further, because these products are relatively new, their long-term performance is not well established. As such, durability testing of these membranes is important to help designers and building owners anticipate long-term performance prior to specifying these products on projects.

Read the article.