Building Science

The increasing incidence of moisture and mold intrusion - the two major causes of building failure - has spawned thousands of property damage cases now pending in U.S. courts. This litigation spreads a broad net in seeking damages, targeting developers, architects, engineers, general contractors and specialty contractors, as well as insurance companies. 

Fortunately, the Building Science community is becoming more knowledgeable about the physics of buildings, and they can now identify the factors that can shorten the life of a building. Day-to-day moisture damage from poor design, construction or maintenance tops the list. 

Building scientists have begun to place a lot more emphasis on creating walls and ceilings with effective air barriers. Why? Air barriers provide a triple benefit for the trades, design professionals and their clients in greening homes:

1. They eliminate random air leakage, which can cause up to 40 percent of a building's energy loss
    
2. They enable complete control over the quality of the interior air by minimizing the intrusion of smog, pollens, molds and other outdoor allergens. Combined with proper mechanical ventilation, building occupants can breathe fresh, filtered air.
    
3. They extend the life of a building by eliminating the flow of airborne moisture into the building envelope, which could lead to condensation, mold growth and decay.

This is why Icynene® is more than just insulation. It delivers the total solution by acting as an insulation and air barrier system.  Icynene® adheres to the construction material (regardless of shape or detailing complexity) and air-seals to ensure optimal air tightness - without the need for excess sealing material.  Icynene® is a high-performance material that addresses your, and your client's, concerns about preserving the life of a building and the systems within it. Icynene® fully integrates with other building components to deliver superior indoor air quality, increased energy efficiency, durability and comfort.