Air Barriers

Your First Line of Defense Against Air Leaks

An air barrier is designed to control the movement of air through a building’s exterior walls. When properly installed, it helps reduce energy loss, improve indoor comfort, protect against moisture issues, and create a healthier, more efficient building.

Explore the different types of air barriers below to learn which solution is right for your project.

close

What Is an Air Barrier?

An air barrier is a system of materials designed to prevent uncontrolled air movement through the building envelope. Rather than relying on a single product, an effective air barrier is created by connecting multiple components into one continuous, airtight layer around the building.

When properly designed and installed, an air barrier helps:

Reduce energy loss
Improve indoor comfort
Minimize drafts
Help control moisture movement
Increase overall building performance

Mechanically Fastened Air Barriers (Building Wraps)

Mechanically fastened air barriers, commonly known as building wraps, are sheet-applied membranes attached to the exterior wall assembly.

While building wraps can perform as effective air barriers, achieving continuous air-tight performance requires careful installation, sealing, and detailing around seams, penetrations, and openings.

Self-Adhered Barrier

Permeable sheet membranes are designed for the purposes of limiting air movement, allowing the passage of water vapor. Self–adhered membranes are manufactured as either vapor permeable or non-vapor permeable. A primer is typically required to condition the substrate surface prior to the placement of the membrane.

Fluid-Applied Air Barrier

Fluid–applied air barriers are liquid membranes applied directly to a building’s exterior walls to create a continuous, seamless barrier that prevents unwanted air infiltration and exfiltration. They help improve energy efficiency, reduce drafts, and control moisture movement through the building envelope. Once applied and properly cured, the membrane forms a durable protective layer that accommodates minor surface irregularities and helps maintain the building’s overall performance.