About Air Barriers for Metal Buildings
Air barriers are designed to keep air from entering or exiting a metal building. Air barrier systems often also protect from water vapor and pollutants.
What Is an Air Barrier?
At its most basic level, an air barrier is a material installed to limit uncontrolled air leakage into and out of a metal building envelope. Some air barriers keep not only air but also vapor and water out. Installing an air barrier improves energy efficiency because heated and cooled air is not lost.
Basics of Air Leakage in Metal Buildings
In metal buildings, air leakage or air infiltration can be caused by wind, stack effect, and mechanical equipment. When air leakage occurs, a metal building becomes less energy efficient. Infiltration of warm, moist air into a cooler metal building can result in condensation and, in turn, moisture damage.
Meeting Building Code and Compliance Requirements
Air barriers are required as part of ASHRAE 90.1, ASHRAE 189.1, and International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). All of these codes require seams, penetrations, and transitions between materials be sealed as part of an air barrier system. In order to comply with the Air Barrier Standard, metal buildings can have air barriers installed using assembly, whole building, or material compliance options.
Air Barrier Supplies Near You
Your local Service Partners branch can recommend the right air barriers for your metal building projects. With over 75 locations throughout the country, we make it easy to get the air barriers you need with same day pickup and next day delivery. Contact your local branch today!