Enviroseal™ is the right wrap to control condensation and is suitable for use behind both brick veneer and lightweight clad walls. Enviroseal™ is classified as a water barrier and is a vapour permeable wall wrap in accordance with AS/NZS 4200.1.
While datasheets clearly illustrate that vapour permeable membranes breathe better than perforated ‘breather’ foil products, the actual drying performance of wood is the key to protecting the building structure and reducing health issues associated with moisture content.
Figure 1: The drying performance of membranes
Drying performance of membranes experiment notes: 1. Experiment conducted by CSR Building Products Ltd. 2. Products tested included CSR Bradford and competitor products – 16 samples plus one control sample were tested over 30 weeks. 3. All samples were weighed at the commencement of the test and weekly to determine the change in moisture content. 4. All samples were exposed to the same ambient weather conditions and all joins were lapped and taped. 5. All results remain the property of CSR Building Products Ltd.
Vapour permeable membranes help to manage condensation risk by allowing water vapour to easily escape – reducing the risk of moisture accumulation in the building structure.
*In conjunction with sealed joins and penetrations.
BENEFITS DURING CONSTRUCTION
- Protects the frame and roof structure from the elements prior to the application of external cladding.
- Improves on-site work flow efficiency by allowing internal trades to commence work before the external cladding is applied.
BENEFITS AFTER CONSTRUCTION
- Reduces the risk of moisture and mould related issues compromising the structural integrity and health of the occupants.
- Improves air tightness which in turn improves energy efficiency, but still allows vapour to escape without condensing on the inside of the building frame.
- Protects the interior of the building from moisture and dust entry from the outside environment.
If in doubt choose vapour permeable
As condensation risk is difficult to predict and the consequences of condensation are not easy to manage after construction is completed, selecting a vapour permeable product is the recommended default solution. Further advice and project specific condensation prediction advice is available by contacting CSR Bradford on 1800 354 044 or via our enquiry form.
