During the construction of a new house or renovationalready ready buildings, all owners pay special attention to the hydro and thermal insulation of all its surfaces. At this stage, many choose the most expensive and high-quality materials, trying to make their homes as warm and comfortable as possible. But what is the surprise of homeowners when, after a short period of time, the house becomes colder and more energy is spent on heating it. To avoid such troubles, experienced builders recommend installing a windproof membrane on the walls and roofs of houses. Here many will ask: what is a windproof membrane? Why is it needed? Because of what qualitative insulation loses its ability? Answers to all these questions and other useful information can be obtained by reading this article to the end.
Why is it necessary to install wind protection and what is it?
Not everyone knows that strong gusts of wind are capable ofblow any insulation material, especially if it is a porous and loose insulation layer. Passing through a heater, turbulent wind currents drag along its small particles, as a result of which the material gradually loses its performance characteristics.
Negative impact on the insulation hasmoisture, which can pass through the lining, as well as steam, penetrating through the walls and roof of the house. Wet material completely loses its capabilities and breaks down. To protect the thermal insulation of the house from the harmful effects of natural factors, it is necessary to install a special windproof layer.
Windproof membrane is a multi-layermaterial that protects the insulation from the effects of wind and moisture penetration. It should be noted that the special design of the material does not prevent the escape of water vapor from the heater and at the same time reliably protects it from moisture from outside. Also, the windproof layer helps to securely fix the thermal insulation, which positively affects its safety during the whole period of operation.
Material specifications
In addition to its basic properties, windproof membranes have several additional features. Namely:
- the material has excellent resistance to sunlight;
- it is safe for humans, as it does not emit harmful fumes when heated;
- has high strength;
- resistant to bacteria and fungi;
- Has high waterproofing characteristics.
To the negative sides of the windshield deviceyou can include additional costs for the purchase and installation of materials. It should be understood that the windproof diaphragm must be installed in strict accordance with the installation rules of this layer. Minor errors can lead to the fact that moisture will accumulate in the insulation, the air exchange will be disturbed, condensation will appear and all materials will require replacement.
Types of wind protection
As a windproof layer, various materials can be used. They differ from each other in their functional characteristics.
1. Perforated materials.These include reinforced films and various combined materials on which small holes are made (not more than 1 mm). This type has a low vapor and water resistance and is most often used as a vapor barrier layer.
2. Porous and fibrous single-layer membranes.Such materials are manufactured by hot sealing of thermoplastic fibers. Due to the large number of pores, they perfectly pass air and steam.
3. Windproof membrane made of polyethylene.This version is made of ultrathin fibers, due to which it has small pore sizes and low density. The vapor permeability of the material is not more than 750 g / m2 (per day), and air permeability - 60 ml per minute. Polyethylene membranes are often used in construction because they have a low cost.
5. Cellulose membranes.This material has a very low density, so it requires a careful attitude during the installation process. Most often it is used in wireframe construction to protect the insulation from moisture and wind. It should be noted that at a low cost the material has high performance characteristics, which makes it quite popular.
Wind protection of the roof
Windproof membrane for the roof must havehigh vapor permeability and sufficient strength. This is necessary to ensure that the material withstood the effects of ultraviolet rays and was able to protect the house from rain during the absence of the main roofing.
A high level of vapor permeability is not importantless than the density. The accumulation of condensate in the attic will inevitably lead to the failure of all elements of the roof and the formation of rot, mold and fungus. That is why it is very important to ensure the water vapor outflow and protect the roof elements from moisture penetration.
Wall Protection
Windproof wall membrane is installedon insulated and ventilated facades, as well as in the construction of houses using wireframe technology. Unlike the roof, there are no horizontal areas where moisture accumulates, so the requirements for wind protection material are slightly different.
For the facade and thermal insulation of conventional facades, any version with good vapor permeability can be used. Here the main goal is to prevent the penetration of moisture and the accumulation of condensate in the insulating layer.
Ventilated facade systems particularly needin high-quality wind protection. To achieve a tight junction of the cladding elements to each other is almost impossible, so moisture and wind can show through the joints. Behind the curtains, strong wind currents can be created that can quickly destroy an unprotected insulation (especially if mineral wool acts as such).
Wind protection for floor
Windproof floor membrane is installedin all houses built of wood. Such buildings, unlike buildings with concrete floors, are distinguished by the ability to let the wind through the floor. For wooden floors choose options from polyethylene or propylene, because they are endowed with excellent waterproofing qualities. On the lags lay waterproofing, insulation layer, windproof and only then the finishing floor.
When properly installed windproofmembrane in the room is established the optimal microclimate for a person, and the insulation material serves for a long time without losing its abilities. Installing wind and waterproofing, you should choose the material that is most suitable for each section of the house. Special attention is paid to the windproof membrane for the roof. Comparing all the types described in this article will help you choose the most appropriate option, which will protect the roof and walls of the house from unwanted phenomena.
