By: Jim Nugent, Regional Sales Manager
With the new code requirements for continuous insulation and weatherable barriers coupled with the trend in construction design moving towards commercial and residential buildings having “out-bound” insulation, architects are looking for sheathing products that offer several features. This would include weather resistive facers, high R-value, durability and a smooth surface so joints can be taped.
When architects and builders look for a product that meets these requirements, can they turn to building wraps like Tyvek? No, these products are good air and moisture barriers but they do not provide R-Value. What about common sheathing products like OSB, wood fiber, or gypsum board? No, again little to no R-Value and some of these sheathings have issues with moisture infiltration.
Let me introduce you to Polar-R and Polar Fold Sheathing. The Polar products from ACH Foam Technologies combine our time tested Foam-Control EPS insulation with a durable, thermally laminated polymer facers.
Poly faced EPS products have a long successful track record in wall sheathing, siding underlayment and even commercial roof applications. Now more than ever the triple threat benefits for Polar (High R-value, durability and moisture resistance) are important to protect the building envelope.
In a weather resistive barrier assembly, Polar-R insulation panels can be attached to a wood or steel frame either vertically or horizontally. All vertical and horizontal joints should be covered with Polar Tape as well as fastener penetrations. Window and door openings are detailed as typical.
Polar-R is not a structural sheathing so corner bracing will be needed, but the labor savings of installing your insulation and weatherable barrier in one step is a plus. You can find our Polar-R construction details on our website.
