ROCKWOOL is giving architects, specifiers, contractors, and installers a new option for creating high-performance exterior wall assemblies with the launch of ROCKWOOL Smartrock.

The new product includes two layers: a stone wool insulation board with an integrated smart vapor retarder. Smartrock is designed to create a layer of continuous insulation (ci) on the interior of mass wall (concrete and masonry) assemblies, providing thermal, vapor, and air control (once taped and air sealed across penetrations) in one product. Smartrock is an innovative solution to meet thermal code requirements, while providing vapor control for both retrofit and new construction projects, and supporting sustainability and energy efficiency goals.

“ROCKWOOL Smartrock is a high-performance interior continuous insulation solution backed by ICC-ES ESR-5374 making it a reliable choice for architects and buildings owners − supporting the preservation of original facades, compliance with code requirements, and adhering to lot line restrictions,” says Ryan Martin, Product Manager, ROCKWOOL North America.

Features and benefits of Smartrock include:

Thermal performance – stone wool insulation provides long-term thermal performance even with changes in temperature

Smart vapor control – Smartrock has an integrated smart vapor retarder to control vapor movement through the assembly, allowing the masonry or concrete to dry in both directions 

Airtightness – the integrated membrane provides an airtight layer when installed with proper sealing of insulation joints and fastener penetrations

Efficient installation – having the integrated membrane on Smartrock means installers do not need to install a separate vapor retarder; installation is straightforward with standard construction tools

Fire Resilience − Smartrock is a Class A fire-rated material in accordance with ASTM E84, and is classified as a noncombustible material in accordance with IBC Section 703.3.1

Dual-density design – Smartrock conforms to the substrate and offers durability and resilience, performing for the building’s lifespan; its lighter weight also makes the board easy to handle

Smartrock is available in select regions of the USA, with thicknesses ranging from 2” to 5” to meet residential and commercial energy code requirements.

Why “smart” vapor control?

The masonry of some older buildings in particular can be sensitive to moisture. Smartrock can be used in both new construction and retrofits – a tremendous benefit given the increasing demand and code changes to achieve greater energy efficiency from existing building stock, especially in dense urban areas.

“Adding insulation to older buildings with mass wall construction can be risky because reducing heat loss can negatively impact its ability to dry,” says Martin. “The smart technology in the integrated vapor retarder reduces that risk without having to sacrifice performance to preserve the aesthetics or historical integrity of the original facade.”

Smartrock utilizes INTELLO^® PLUS from Pro Clima, a leading smart vapor retarder in North America, as the integrated membrane. This vapor retarder adapts to changing moisture and humidity conditions, for substrates such as brick, concrete masonry units (CMUs), concrete, and stone. This variable vapor permeability controls the risk of condensation within as well as on the interior side of the masonry, supporting the durability and resilience of the assembly – and improving the health and comfort of the building's occupants.

“Smart vapor control membranes, or humidity dependent vapor retarders, means this assembly protected by this layer can adapt (i.e. open or close) to changing humidity conditions and varying moisture during the seasons," says Floris Keverling Buisman, CEO, 475 High Performance Building Supply, North America’s importer and distributor of INTELLO Plus. “This minimizes the potential for trapping moisture within the building enclosure and reduces the risk of damage from freeze-thaw cycles in the masonry.” 

For more information about Smartrock or interior continuous insulation of concrete and masonry walls, visit: rockwool.com/smartrock