Choosing the right air barrier system is critical to improved building performance

An air barrier system is one of the critical elements that goes into the overall design and structure of any building. These systems are developed to control airflow between a conditioned space and an unconditioned space. Without them, many challenges can occur with the structure, including building deterioration, construction-related issues, high energy costs, and unnecessary, out-of-pocket maintenance expenses.

Ultimately, air barriers are critical in keeping the outside out and the inside in, while simultaneously protecting the occupants of the building by providing a comfortable (draft-free) and quality air environment.

Henry^® Company offers an AIA Continuing Education course – Air barrier assemblies: technology, installation and code compliance – that provides in-depth information on choosing the right air barrier technology based on design, function, building codes and more. Here are just a few key takeaways you’ll gain if you sign up for a course with one of our trusted, expert advisors:

1. Air barrier assemblies help “build better buildings.” Installing an air barrier system helps protect the building envelope from uncontrolled air leakage and traps moisture in the air to prevent mold and poor indoor air quality.
2. Design is everything! As air barrier technologies continue to evolve, product engineers design systems to specifically address common construction challenges such as extreme weather conditions and long-term, ultraviolet (UV) sun exposure. In fact, some air barrier brands can be installed in temperatures as low as 10 °F, up to 30 minutes before a rain or snow event, or even left exposed to UV sunlight for up to a year.
3. International building code requirements mandate the installation of an air barrier assembly. The requirement for the installation of a continuous air barrier to any new building structure was set forth by the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) in 2012. These codes continue to evolve, with the latest update being in 2018. The IECC, combined with other methods of specifying compliance such as NFPA 285, provide even more direction for improved building design and functionality.

Request that a Henry representative come to your office to present the latest air barrier continuing education course – Air barrier assemblies: technology, installation and code compliance.

Select the right air barrier system. Turn to a trusted advisor.

For more than 30 years, Henry air barrier systems have been helping buildings keep the outside out and the inside in. So we know there’s an air barrier system to meet your project’s design needs. From mechanically attached to fully adhered and fluid applied technologies, Henry offers options within all three categories, and can help you select the right system based on the design needs of your project.

The most recent addition to the Henry air barrier system portfolio is Air-Bloc^® All Weather STPE^™. Air-Bloc All Weather STPE delivers an unmatched degree of flexibility, including the ability to:

• Adapt easily to unique installation details
• Handle two-times the UV exposure of water-based barriers
• Withstand permanent UV exposure under open-joint cladding

Additionally, Air-Bloc All Weather STPE can withstand rain within only 30 minutes after installation.

It’s important to understand which air barrier system is right for each building type or construction environment. 

Learn more about:

• Blueskin self-adhered air barrier systems
• Air-Bloc fluid applied air barrier systems
• Other Henry continuing education courses

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