Controlling the levels of moisture which enter and exit a building can be a complex task. Find out how Vario® XtraSafe smart membrane can tackle the effects of unwanted moisture in your build.
Along with airtightness in dwellings, another important factor that influences the comfort of the occupant is the management of moisture. Controlling the levels of moisture which enter and exit a building throughout its lifetime can be a complex and difficult task, yet something that should be carefully observed in order to prevent avoidable damage at a later date. As one of the most technically advanced materials on the market, the Vario® XtraSafe smart membrane has been created to tackle the effects of unwanted moisture on your build.
What is moisture management?
When we talk about managing moisture on a build, we are primarily referring to the ability to ensure we can control the accumulation or growth of moisture within its internal structure. With building sites being often open to the elements, it’s likely there is a fair amount of moisture inside before it has been made airtight. This means the right protection must be used which will allow damp materials to dry out in the right environment, as well as preventing any water vapour from entering again.
Water leakage or vapour can cause accumulation within a building, causing potential long term damage to the structure. Warm air that can get caught in between gaps in the building can quickly condense into moisture, leading on to a more complex problem in the form of damp or mould. Additionally, moisture or leakage can also have an impact on the insulation material used throughout the construction, reducing the thermal performance of the building and increasing the risk of severe levels of damp. Moisture management done correctly will ensure leakage is kept to a minimum and occupant comfort levels are kept high.
Let Vario® XtraSafe manage your moisture
When it comes to the right tool for the job, Vario® XtraSafe is a tried and tested solution to ensure moisture is kept at the level you’d expect. Compared to cheaper alternatives in the form of plastic sheets, Vario is a breathable ‘smart vapour control layer’ which can easily adapt to external conditions in order to offer the protection that’s required. Here’s how it works:
- Cold and damp weather– during the winter months, it’s likely that the inside temperature of a house is higher, meaning more warmth and moisture. With a low humidity level in the wall itself, the smart pore system will close up preventing everyday water vapour from escaping out of the building.
- Warm and humid weather– in summer, the humidity in the walls are likely to increase, meaning Vario’s pores will open to release any accumulated air which has been trapped indoors. This will then keep the external structure dry and it will prevent any further damage to the building fabric.
About Isover Saint-Gobain
Isover are the leading manufacturers of sustainable insulation solutions for a number of applications including thermal, acoustic and fire performance in new build, renovation and industrial dwellings. Isover has a prominent presence in over 50 countries worldwide and pride themselves on overcoming technical construction challenges with innovative materials.