Durability of Fluid Applied Air Barriers

AIA CREDIT: Yes

ABSTRACT:

Laura Bashaw will present on SGH’s experience to-date with fluid applied air barrier membranes and focus on SGH’s self-funded research. Fluid applied air-barrier/water-resistive barrier membranes for use in exterior wall systems are relatively new products and are increasingly being specified by designers. Because these products are relatively new, their long-term performance is not well established. SGH has also observed failure of the membrane in the field during construction. She will discuss the status of industry standards, results of internal testing, and identification of important performance characteristics.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Why air barriers are specified and the types of air barriers.
• Understand industry standards that address fluid applied air barriers.
• Why air and water resistive barriers are a critical competent in the wall assembly.
• Understand the in-house research testing results and impacts on durability of fluid applied air barriers.

PRESENTER BIO:

Laura Bashaw, P.E., Senior Staff Member, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger

Laura Bashaw joined Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH) in 2008 as part of the Building Technology group. She is experienced in building enclosure investigations, construction litigation support, building enclosure repair designs, and subsequent construction administration. She has been involved in investigations and design of repairs for low-slope roofing, windows, curtain walls, EIFS cladding, brick veneer, mass masonry walls, steep-slope roofing, and plaza waterproofing.

RSVP:

For BEC Chicago members, an RSVP invite will be sent out approximately 7 to 10 days in advance of event. For non-BEC Chicago members interested in attending, you may contact Jeff Diqui at jdiqui@imiweb.org to request an invite. The inviation will include a link to a mandatory RSVP.