Air Barrier Requirements for Low Slope Roof Assemblies - Myths vs. Facts
Bas Baskaran and Peter Kalinger
Format: MP3 Audio file download

A roofing assembly in which the membrane is attached, through insulation and other components, to the structural deck at discrete points using fasteners is known as a Mechanically Attached Roofing System (MARS). In MARS, the waterproofing membrane is impermeable to air. If constructed properly, it takes the role of an air barrier, controlling air movement from the one environment to the other. However, recent changes in the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC 2012), does not recognize MARS for air barrier requirements. This present address myths and facts of air barrier requirements in low slope roofing.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify role of roof air barrier in building envelope
• Discuss difference between air leakage and air intrusion
• Explain difference between air barrier and air/vapor retarder
• Evaluate performance requirements of air barriers and air/vapor retarders

Target Audience:

• Commercial Contractor
• Architect/Designer/Consultant
• Manufacturer-Supplier
• Building Owner/Facility Manager