Airtightness Products for Energy Efficient Building: Airtight Membrane Systems

Airtightness products work to give modern buildings a more robust hermetic seal. The membranes and paints in this category strive to deliver an airtight result by preventing air passage from indoor to outdoor environments or in reverse.

Today's best products can control vapours, create airtight membranes, and deliver ongoing results from a single investment.

The term "hermetic" comes from Hermes Trismegistus, a legendary figure who authored several texts exploring science and philosophy. He is said to have invented a process with a "secret seal" that made a glass tube an airtight vessel. 

Some airtightness items paint onto the selected surface to deliver intelligent air and vapour control results. 

Why Is Energy Efficiency Important for the Modern Home?

Implementing energy-efficient measures can lead to substantial cost savings for homeowners. By reducing energy consumption, it is possible to lower utility costs significantly.

Energy consumption in homes can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. By improving efficiency rates, homeowners can reduce their carbon footprint and consume less electricity.

Energy-efficient homes tend to be more comfortable and provide a healthier living environment. Effective insulation and weatherization can prevent drafts, maintain consistent indoor temperatures, and reduce noise infiltration. 

High-efficiency HVAC systems provide better air quality and effectively regulate temperature and humidity levels.

With airtightness products supporting this outcome, an energy-efficient home can have a higher market value and more appeal to potential buyers.

If you’re not trying to sell as a homeowner today, you can save money and improve comfort while promoting a sustainable lifestyle. 

What Are Airtight Membranes?

Airtight membranes are a crucial component of energy-efficient buildings and play a significant role in maintaining indoor air quality, thermal performance, and moisture control.

They are typically installed in the walls, roofs, and floors of a building to create a continuous barrier that restricts air movement. These products seal the gaps and joints that develop leakage paths, minimising the infiltration of outside air while stopping the modified indoor conditions from escaping outside.

These products use materials with low air permeability to generate excellent long-term results. You can combine some airtightness options with tapes, sealants, or adhesives to create a durable result.

When combined with proper ventilation strategies, airtightness contributes to a healthier indoor environment by introducing fresh air and expelling stale air without leaks that lead to unwanted energy consumption.

How Do Airtight Membranes Provide Support?

There are different types of airtight membranes, such as self-adhesive, spray-applied, or those that require mechanical fastening. The application method will depend on the type you are using.

For self-adhesive membranes, peel off the backing and carefully stick the product to the prepared surface. Start from one end and gradually work your way to the other, ensuring there are no wrinkles or air bubbles trapped beneath it.

With spray-applied membranes, special equipment is needed to put the material onto the desired surface to create an airtight layer.

Some membranes require fasteners to secure them to the surface. Staples or nails are often used, providing sufficient support to create your desired result. 

How Do Brush-on Waterproof Membranes Work? 

Brush-on waterproof membranes are liquid-applied coatings that provide a protective barrier against water intrusion. This product is usable on numerous surfaces, including basement walls, roofs and foundations.

These membranes form a seamless, continuous, and flexible product when applied and cured according to the manufacturer's instructions.

How to Apply a Brush-on Waterproof Membrane

A brush-on waterproof membrane is a straightforward product that delivers long-lasting results when applied correctly. Different instructions may apply, but these general application steps can help you create your desired outcome. 

·      Before applying the waterproof membrane, the surface must be clean, dry, and free from loose debris or contaminants. It helps to inspect for damage or cracks at this time to ensure any necessary repairs are completed.

·      The liquid waterproof membrane is applied using a brush, roller, or spray equipment, depending on the product and surface. It is usually a thick liquid that spreads easily, often requiring multiple coats to achieve the desired performance.

·      Waterproof membranes adhere to the substrate for a strong bond. Each product has unique adhesion properties that form an airtight seal to prevent water penetration.

·      After the application, the liquid membrane undergoes a curing process. This process transforms the liquid into a solid, forming a seamless and flexible barrier.

When applied correctly, today’s best brush-on waterproof membranes can accommodate slight movements or shifts in the underlying substrate without cracking or compromising effectiveness.

Benefits of Using Airtightness Paint

While regular paint primarily serves aesthetic purposes, airtightness products offer additional benefits related to energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and moisture control.

Here is a closer look at some of the benefits that come with the application of airtightness paint in residential and commercial settings.

Benefit #1: Energy Efficiency

Airtight paint helps reduce leakage through walls and ceilings, preventing the escape of modified air to the outdoor environment. Creating an effective barrier minimises heat loss during colder months, while gains are kept low during the summer.

This advantage often leads to lower heating and cooling costs and reduced energy consumption.

Benefit #2: Enhanced Indoor Air Quality

With airtightness paint, homes and businesses prevent the infiltration of outdoor pollutants, allergens, and dust into the indoor environment. Limiting contaminant entry by reducing leakage improves the overall comfort of those inside.

This advantage is particularly helpful for those with respiratory conditions or severe environmental allergies.

Benefit #3: Improved Moisture Control

Airtightness paint can act as a vapour barrier, restricting the passage of moisture. By preventing its infiltration and limiting condensation, this product mitigates mould growth and water damage risks.

With these issues kept at a minimum, homes and commercial buildings often see fewer issues with rot or the deterioration of building materials. It is quite helpful for properties or indoor spaces with humidity issues. 

Benefit #4: Thermal Comfort Gains

Through leak reduction, airtightness paint maintains consistent indoor temperatures throughout the structure. This advantage improves the comfort levels of those inside by reducing hot or cold spots near windows and doors.

Benefit #5: Environmental Support 

The improved energy efficiency associated with airtightness paint can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as less energy is required for heating and cooling. Stopping moisture intrusions contributes to a healthier indoor environment and expensive remediation efforts.

How to Apply Airtightness Paint?

Applying airtightness paint is generally like working with regular paint, but there are some specific considerations to ensure proper application for achieving your desired outcome.

You’ll start by ensuring the surface is free from dust. It needs to be clean and dry to ensure a tight seal occurs. It helps to remove loose paint and debris while repairing damaged areas discovered upon inspection.

Choose a high-quality airtight paint specifically designed for the problem you want to solve. Look for tested and certified products with guaranteed air barrier performance.

Before applying the product, carefully review the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for application. That includes information about recommended tools, application techniques, drying times, and specific precautions.

As you apply the airtightness paint, start from the top and work to the bottom. Apply an even coat with your brush, roller, or sprayer. It helps to pay close attention to your edges and joints, ensuring thorough coverage in each corner.

Apply additional coats as necessary, following the recommended drying times between each one.

While the airtight paint helps reduce air leakage, it is essential to seal any gaps, cracks, or joints in the building's envelope using appropriate sealants or caulks. Apply them after the product dries for the best results.

As you work, take appropriate safety precautions. Wear protective clothing and eyewear while applying the paint in a well-ventilated space. Once the work is complete, dispose of any waste materials according to local rules.

How Long Does It Take Airtightness Paint to Cure?

Today’s best airtightness paint dries before it cures. Although each product has different manufacturer standards to follow, most are ready for full use after 48 hours. That means you can wipe the surface clean without worrying about air or moisture permeability.

The bridging properties of your selected product can affect drying and curing times. Items with more solids than fillers deliver a smoother final finish but can require extra time to set.

Porous surfaces could require an additional coat to ensure the intended results of this investment are achievable. 

It's important to note that factors like temperature, humidity and thickness of the applied airtightness paint or membrane can influence curing time. Higher temperatures and lower humidity levels generally accelerate the curing process, while colder temperatures and higher humidity can prolong it.

Signs and Symptoms That Airtightness Products Are Necessary

Cracks in the foundation walls or floor can allow water to seep into the basement or crawl space. These spaces may appear small initially but can widen over time, increasing liquid and vapour penetration.

Efflorescence is a white, powdery residue that appears on concrete surfaces. It is caused by the movement of water through porous materials, leaving behind mineral deposits. If you see this issue, it indicates you have water movement that requires additional controls.

Poorly directed or inadequate exterior drainage can result in water pooling near the foundation or infiltrating into the basement. If you notice liquid pooling around your home or commercial building after it rains, you could need airtightness products to add a protective layer.

Persistent dampness or moisture in areas such as basements, crawl spaces, or bathrooms, even without visible leaks, can indicate a waterproofing issue. Ongoing odours or unmodified indoor temperature zones near windows or doors can indicate an airtightness issue that must be addressed.

Water stains on walls, ceilings, or floors are often visible signs of moisture infiltration.

Each homeowner should perform a monthly structural integrity inspection. During this walkthrough, look for bowing or sagging walls, rotting materials, or deteriorating concrete. Some issues may require professional assessment before applying an appropriate airtight solution.

Top Airtightness Brands to Use for Today’s Properties

Although several companies create airtightness paints and vapour contour membranes for residential and commercial applications, some brands stand out above the rest of the competition.

Passive Purple from Intelligent Membranes is an excellent option for an airtight vapour control layer. The colour lets you see at a glance if you have missed any spots during the application. You can apply it to insulation, concrete, and other materials to generate gaps or cracks that cause heating or cooling loss.

We highly recommend using Passive Purple airtight products for joint, ceiling and floor improvements. Its liquid vapour control lasts longer and delivers improved airtightness compared to similar items. The fire ratings are comparable to paper-based membranes. 

The best feature of many Passive Purple products is their Passivhaus-certified score of 0.03ach, which is 20 times lower than the 0.6ach requirement. It is such a powerful choice that it can restrict radon gas entry.

Blowerproof is another excellent brand to consider for airtightness benefits. The paint dries to become a durable and flexible membrane that adheres quickly to various building surfaces. You receive a continuous result that protects a home from air and moisture intrusion. 

You'll find with Blowerproof products that they stick to surface contours, even in tough spots. You receive a complete seal for different spaces and gaps. It can even be applied to damp surfaces. You can then plaster or paint over it once it dries.

Blowerproof airtight products are also capable of restricting radon entry.

Pavatex, Sopravap Hygro, and Thermofloc are additional options for airtightness control. Each offers membrane supports that deliver impressive results right away.

In today's construction industry, airtightness has become an essential factor in achieving energy efficiency and thermal comfort in buildings. Airtight insulation solutions and airtight membranes play a significant role in ensuring that the building envelope is sealed tightly, preventing the leakage of air and the entry of external pollutants. These airtightness or airtight membranes are specifically crafted to be impermeable to air, functioning as barriers that prevent airflow through walls, roofs, and floors.

They are commonly used in conjunction with insulation materials to create airtight and well-insulated building assemblies. By maintaining a high level of airtightness, buildings can greatly reduce heat loss, minimize energy consumption, and enhance indoor air quality. Airtight insulation solutions, such as spray foam insulation or airtight tapes, are also effective in preventing drafts, condensation, and moisture penetration.

Overall, the utilization of air tightness membrane technologies and materials not only contributes to energy efficiency but also enhances the overall comfort and durability of buildings. 

Please feel free to reach out to our Buy Insulation Online team with any questions you have about your specific situation. We can review the benefits of today's best airtightness products while addressing your concerns. 

Contact us at your convenience or select your preferred paint or membrane so that today's investment delivers tomorrow's results.

When considering energy-efficient building design, the airtightness of a building is crucial. An airtight home ensures that the interior of the building remains unaffected by external factors, such as temperature fluctuations and moisture infiltration. To achieve maximum airtightness, a range of airtight membranes can be utilized as barrier membranes. These membranes are specifically designed to cater to the needs of airtight constructions, enabling the building to meet building regulations and improve the overall performance of the building in terms of energy efficiency.

Airtightness products, such as internal air tight membrane and vapor checks, play an important role in airtightness and moisture control within the building. By using these products, warm air can escape while preventing moisture from entering the structure. A range of air tightness products, like those offered by pro clima intello, are considered best for achieving airtightness in a building. 

For those aiming for a low-energy or ecological building, these systems offer an effective way to ensure a fully airtight structure. Whether it is roofing membranes or other air barrier systems, the use of airtightness products and techniques plays a pivotal role in constructing an energy-efficient and airtight building. 

Our Airtightness Products Range

Sopravap Hygro - Vapour Control And Airtight Membrane:

The Sopravap Hygro is an advanced solution for maintaining optimal indoor air quality and temperature control. Acting as both a vapour control and airtight membrane, it effectively regulates the passage of moisture and air. This product is designed to create a barrier that prevents the unwanted movement of moisture and air between different areas of a building. Its high-quality construction ensures that it can be used with confidence in various applications, contributing to improved energy efficiency, durability, and overall comfort.

Pavatex DB 3.5 - Airtight Membrane - Internal - 1.5 X 50M:

The Pavatex DB 3.5 is an internal airtight membrane that offers exceptional performance in controlling air movement within buildings. With dimensions of 1.5 meters by 50 meters, this membrane is designed to be versatile and easy to install. By creating a robust barrier against air leakage, it helps enhance the energy efficiency of structures and contributes to a healthier indoor environment. Whether for residential or commercial use, the Pavatex DB 3.5 delivers a reliable solution for maintaining a controlled climate indoors.

Passive Purple Airtight Vapour Control Layer - 10Kg:

The Passive Purple Airtight Vapour Control Layer is a heavy-duty solution designed to ensure comprehensive airtightness and vapour control in construction projects. With a weight of 10 kilograms, this product is built to provide a robust and reliable barrier against air leakage and moisture movement. Its unique design and composition make it suitable for various applications, promoting energy efficiency, structural integrity, and overall building performance.

Passive Purple Brush-On Airtight Vapour Control Layer - 5Kg:

The Passive Purple Brush-On Airtight Vapour Control Layer offers a user-friendly approach to achieving airtightness and vapour control. With a convenient brush-on application, this 5-kilogram product is designed to be versatile and adaptable for different surfaces. Its formulation ensures an effective barrier against air and moisture, contributing to improved energy efficiency and indoor air quality. This brush-on solution simplifies the process of creating airtight and vapour-resistant environments.

Passive Purple Waterproof Membrane - External - 10Kg:

The Passive Purple Waterproof Membrane is an external solution designed to protect buildings from the elements. Weighing 10 kilograms, this membrane provides reliable waterproofing for external surfaces, preventing moisture infiltration and potential damage. Its robust composition and waterproofing capabilities contribute to the longevity and structural integrity of buildings, making it an essential component for exterior applications.

Passive Purple Brush On Waterproof Membrane - External - 5Kg:

The Passive Purple Brush On Waterproof Membrane offers a practical and efficient solution for external waterproofing needs. With a weight of 5 kilograms, this product can be easily applied using a brush, allowing for precise coverage on various surfaces. It forms a protective layer that prevents water penetration, contributing to the durability and overall performance of exterior structures.

Blowerproof Airtightness Paint:

The Blowerproof Airtightness Paint is a specialized coating designed to enhance the airtightness of buildings. By creating an impermeable layer, it effectively seals gaps and joints, preventing unwanted air leakage. This paint is a versatile solution suitable for a wide range of surfaces and substrates. Its easy application and airtight benefits make it a valuable tool in improving energy efficiency and indoor comfort.

Blowerproof Airtightness Membrane:

The Blowerproof Airtightness Membrane is engineered to provide comprehensive airtightness in building envelopes. This product forms a durable and flexible barrier against air leakage, helping to optimize energy efficiency and thermal performance. With its high-quality construction, it can be applied to various surfaces and structures, ensuring that airtightness requirements are met for long-lasting and energy-efficient buildings.

Thermofloc VSD Membrane - Vapour Control Layer:

The Thermofloc VSD Membrane serves as a reliable vapour control layer to regulate moisture movement within buildings. Designed to meet high standards of performance, this membrane contributes to maintaining optimal indoor humidity levels and preventing condensation issues. Its effective vapour control properties enhance the overall building envelope's durability and energy efficiency, providing a solution for sustainable and comfortable indoor environments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the importance of airtightness in building systems?

A: Airtightness is crucial for energy-efficient building systems as it helps enhance building performance by reducing heat loss, preventing air leakage, and minimizing energy consumption.

Q: What is vapor control in relation to airtightness?

A: Vapor control is an integral part of airtightness as it involves managing the movement of water vapor to prevent moisture-related issues such as condensation and mold growth within the building envelope.

Q: How does Pro Clima contribute to airtightness?

A: Pro Clima offers a range of airtightness solutions including vapor control membranes, sealing tapes, and airtight liquid products that effectively seal gaps in the building fabric, ensuring a high level of airtightness.

Q: What is the purpose of sealing tape in airtightness systems?

A: Sealing tape is used to create a secure and airtight bond between different building components, such as joints, connections, and overlaps, ensuring a continuous barrier against air leakage.

Q: What are the advantages of using Pro Clima Tescon sealing tape?

A: Pro Clima Tescon sealing tape offers excellent adhesion properties, high durability, and superior airtightness performance. It is specifically designed to withstand challenging conditions and ensure long-term airtightness.

Q: How does Pro Clima Solitex Fronta contribute to building airtightness?

A: Pro Clima Solitex Fronta is a high-performance breather membrane that also acts as an airtightness layer. It allows moisture to escape from the building while effectively preventing air leakage.

Q: Why is airtightness membrane important in energy-efficient building systems?

A: Airtightness membranes play a critical role in minimizing air leaks and maintaining the desired level of airtightness in the building envelope. This helps improve energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs.

Q: What is the difference between airtightness membrane and vapor control membrane?

A: Airtightness membranes primarily focus on preventing air leakage, while vapor control membranes manage the movement of water vapor within the building envelope. However, some membranes can serve both functions.

Q: How can a lack of airtightness affect a building's performance?

A: A lack of airtightness can result in air leakage, which leads to heat loss, increased energy consumption, reduced indoor comfort, and potential structural damage due to condensation or moisture-related issues.

Q: Why should airtightness be tested in building systems?

A: Conducting an airtightness test allows for the identification of air leakage areas and potential gaps in the building envelope. This helps in remedial action and ensures that the desired level of airtightness is achieved.

Q: What is the purpose of advanced airtightness solutions?

A: Advanced airtightness solutions are designed to enhance the energy efficiency of building systems by minimizing the uncontrolled air leakage.

Q: What is air tightness?

A: Air tightness refers to the ability of a building to prevent unwanted air movement from either entering or escaping.

Q: How can air tightness be achieved?

A: Air tightness can be achieved by using various sealing products such as butyl sealing tape and sealant, as well as by installing airtight membranes and vapor control layers.

Q: What is the purpose of airtight membranes?

A: Airtight membranes, also known as breather membranes or internal airtight membranes, are used to create a barrier against uncontrolled air leakage in the building envelope.

Q: How do airtight membranes enhance building performance?

A: Airtight membranes improve the energy efficiency of the building by preventing the cold air from entering and the warm air from escaping, thus reducing the need for heating and cooling.

Q: What are the benefits of using air and vapor control layers?

A: Air and vapor control layers provide additional protection against moisture and condensation, ensuring the long-term durability and performance of the building.

Q: Are there specific products available for achieving airtightness?

A: Yes, there is a wide range of products available in the market that are specifically designed to enhance the airtightness of buildings, such as the Pro Clima Intello system.

Q: Can advanced airtightness solutions be applied to existing buildings?

A: Yes, advanced airtightness solutions can be retrofitted to existing buildings to improve their energy performance and reduce uncontrolled air leakage.

Q: Are there any building standards or regulations related to airtightness?

A: Yes, there are building standards and regulations across the UK that set the requirements for airtightness in new constructions and renovations.

Q: How do advanced airtightness solutions contribute to low energy buildings?

A: Advanced airtightness solutions minimize energy loss through uncontrolled air leakage, thereby helping to create low energy buildings that require less heating and cooling.