2 mins
At Cromar Building Products, we have been working tirelessly and listening to our much-valued customer base to their needs and wants. With the building industry changing all the time and building and safety standards becoming more prevalent we have been developing a new air open membrane featuring qualities to improve our future housing.
An “air-open” breather membrane is a type of building material used in construction, specifically for roofing and wall systems. Its primary function is to allow for the passage of air while still serving as a protective barrier against external elements like wind and rain. This type of membrane is designed to enhance the overall performance and efficiency of a building.
Key characteristics and features of air-open breather membrane include:
- Breathability: The term “air-open” signifies that the membrane has a high level of breathability, allowing moisture vapour to pass through it. This characteristic is crucial for preventing condensation and moisture build-up within the building structure.
- Vapour Permeability: Air-open breather membranes are highly vapour-permeable, meaning they permit the movement of water vapour while blocking liquid water. This property helps maintain the optimal moisture levels within the building envelope.
- Wind Resistance: Despite their breathability, these membranes are engineered to be resistant to wind and rain. They act as a weatherproof barrier that protects the building from the external elements, such as wind-driven rain.
- Thermal Performance: Air-open membranes can enhance the thermal performance of a building by preventing the accumulation of moisture within the insulation layer, which can lead to reduced thermal efficiency.
- Compliance: Many air-open breather membranes meet the relevant building codes and regulations, which often include requirements for moisture management and energy efficiency.
![Membrane being used on a roof](https://roofingtimes.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/FINAL-VENT3-AIR-On-the-roof-1024x576.png)
![](https://roofingtimes.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/FINAL-VENT3-AIR-single-roll-02-1024x576.png)
By allowing air to pass through and facilitating the movement of moisture vapour, air-open breather membranes help maintain a healthy and energy-efficient building envelope. They are particularly useful in cold and mixed climates, where the risk of condensation and moisture-related issues is high.