Air Barriers

Air barriersystems are used to enhance building performance. The primary purpose of an air barrier system is to negate the air from leaking into and out of the building enclosure. Using a cavity wall air barrier ensures the occupants are more comfortable, are provided draft free space, and are protected from pollutants from entering the building. These pollutants can range from pollens, suspended particulates and odors to biological contaminates on the other side.

Mechanical systems can be properly sized rather than having to compensate for the air leakage by over-sizing the equipment. In addition to the equipment not having to condition the air that leaked in, the equipment will work more efficiently. Moisture laden air leaks in from either the inside or outside is barred from  entering the building enclosure. If the wall cavity system does not perform properly this moisture laden air can migrate far enough into the building
assembly that they can be cooled down to their dew point and at this point the water vapor turns to liquid water. This liquid water can corrode metals in the building assembly, provide one of the ingredients needed for mold growth,
and saturate building materials such as fibrous insulations, gypsum wall board, or wood. Air leakage has the ability to transport exponentially more moisture into and through the building enclosure than occurs through vapor diffusion alone.

Schnell Contractors, Inc. has been an applicator of air barriers systems for over 10 years and is approved by several major manufacturers. Schnell Contractors, Inc. is certified through the Air Barrier Association of America (ABAA.) We can provide a complete system including spray applied, roller applied or sheet applied materials, based on the specific construction type. Air barriers must be a complete system. Use the experience and training of Schnell Contractors, Inc. applicators to provide an airtight vapor barrier system to your next cavity wall construction project. Contact us for more information.