Frequently Asked Questions
| Why is a continuous air barrier system important? |
| The Poly-Wall continuous system not only seals the building exterior, but also between window and wall, concrete and steel, and between control joints and transitional joints. It's a complete system that helps protect the building envelope from air, vapor and moisture infiltration. Poly-Wall air barrier and waterproofing products are chemically compatible, providing seamless protection where the above-grade and below-grade materials meet. |
| How is Poly-Wall's thermoplastic technology superior to asphalt-based products? |
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Poly-Wall's patented thermoplastic technology achieves exceptional durability in a thin, flexible membrane that retains elastomeric properties. Modified asphalts depend upon water and/or solvents to stay flexible and stretchable. As fluids migrate out of modified asphalt, they shrink and get brittle, eventually disappearing altogether. Asphalt-based products are biodegradable and provide a natural food source for mold. The anti-microbial properties in Poly-Wall's thermoplastic barriers help prevent the growth of mold. |
| How does Poly-Wall liquid membrane meet ASTM standards at only 40 mil. thickness? |
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Thermoplastic technology was originally developed for bridges, where incredible durability and elasticity are needed. Poly-Wall uses this same technology to effectively achieve cracking-bridging properties of up to 1/16 inch on concrete and masonry walls at less than half the thickness of competitive products. Poly-Wall's adhesion to concrete exceeds 100+ lbs./sq. in., which prevents peeling or bladder formations. |
| How does Poly-Wall achieve such significant time savings on the job? |
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The single-component, cold fluid-applied products do not need A-B mixing or heating. The thin, one-pass coverage goes on quickly and dries significantly faster than thicker products. Poly-Wall can be applied to green concrete after only three days, where asphalt and 2-part products require up to 28 days before application. |
| How does Poly-Wall air barrier membranes simplify job detailing while ensuring an effective seal? |
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The Poly-Wall liquid membrane serves as an activator for peel-n-stick transition membranes, sealing them in place. No additional coating is required. This not only eliminates the time and cost of an overcoat, but also allows for visual inspection of all detailing, giving responsible parties the opportunity to ensure the work has been properly completed. Any missed areas can easily be fixed. |
| When it comes to membrane application and repair, why is Poly-Wall chosen over all other products? |
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Poly-Wall's thermoplastic technology allows the wet product to literally meld into the dry product, creating a continuous system and eliminating a seam or possible breach in the membrane. It provides installers greater flexibility for starting and stopping or for touchups. |
| Why is Poly-Wall's 6-month UV protection warranty important for commercial projects? |
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If parts of the installed air barrier end up staying exposed to the sun for purposes of job sequencing or access to construction traffic, the air barrier will not loose its effectiveness. Other products need to be covered within 30 to 90 days or the warranty is void. |
| How can a solvent-based air barrier actually produce lower VOCs than a water-based product? |
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When it comes to cold-weather applications, contractors need to look at the total installation process. Poly-Wall AirLok products can be applied in temperatures as low as -20˚F, eliminating the high cost and environmental impact of tenting. One contractor who used AirLok Flex on a school project in Wisconsin saved more than $52,000 in propane fuel costs and reduced VOCs by 34,000 lbs. |
| When should Poly-Wall products with ProBan mold inhibitor be used? |
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ProBan is added to select Poly-Wall products to help prevent mold spores from multiplying, even when conditions are ideal for growth. The worst place that molds can grow is inside wall cavities and flooring, where there is no venting. Kitchens, bathrooms, pool and spa areas, atriums, mechanical rooms, and laundries are continually impacted by high moisture and heat and are highly susceptible to mold problems. Other hot zones include garages, entryways, and around all windows and air conditioning units-areas where temperature fluctuations create condensation. |
