Air barriers - Articles | Walls & Ceilings

Air, Vapor & WRB Barriers: Thermal Bridging 101, a Webinar from ABAA

Learn air, vapor and WRB basics, plus thermal bridging impacts on building envelope performance.

June 14, 2026

Air barriers, vapor barriers and water-resistive barriers are often treated as straightforward concepts, yet confusion persists throughout the construction industry.

Air, Water, Vapor Barriers: What Matters Most

Field guidance on barrier roles, testing, and install details that drive airtightness and durability.

Laverne Dalgleish

June 8, 2026

No Comments

Understanding air, water and vapor barriers is essential for airtight, durable wall and ceiling assemblies that meet modern code and performance demands.

May 2026 Product Buzz Guide

May 28, 2026

The Buzz Guide features products from a variety of brands in the construction industry.

SAF C4000 Rainscreen Earns AAMA 509-22 Test

SAF updates third-party testing data for its C4000 drained and back-ventilated panel system.

John Wyatt

May 10, 2026

No Comments

SAF C4000 rainscreen system earns AAMA 509-22 classification for drainage and ventilation.

ABAA Air Barrier Conference Returns to Minneapolis

Two-day annual event delivers airtightness, air barrier training for contractors, designers in Minnesota.

John Wyatt

April 12, 2026

No Comments

Two-day annual event delivers airtightness, air barrier training for contractors, designers in Minnesota.

New Product

HandiFoam Launches Gasket Foam for Drywall Sealing

Foam compresses after curing to prevent bowing while maintaining a durable seal that supports energy performance and indoor air quality.

W&C Staff

April 10, 2026

No Comments

New polyurethane foam creates continuous drywall-to-framing seals to reduce air leaks, moisture intrusion, and improve energy efficiency in residential construction.

Spray Foam vs Traditional Insulation in the South

Comparing performance in heat, humidity, and severe weather conditions

John Wyatt

April 1, 2026

No Comments

Fiberglass and cellulose often fall short in Southern climates, while spray foam delivers better air sealing, moisture control, and energy efficiency.

Using Building Science to Design a High-Performing Building Envelope

Applying building science principles to insulation selection and envelope design helps control water, air, vapor, and heat for improved durability, efficiency, and occupant comfort.

Kristen White

February 16, 2026

No Comments

Applying building science principles to insulation selection and envelope design helps control water, air, vapor, and heat for improved durability, efficiency, and occupant comfort.

Spray Foam Insulation applied to a ceiling

Choosing Between Open and Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation

A clear, practical guide to the key differences between open- and closed-cell spray foam insulation—and how to choose the right option based on performance needs, climate, and building goals.

Maxime Duzyk

February 11, 2026

No Comments

A clear, practical guide to the key differences between open-and closed-cell spray foam insulation—and how to choose the right option based on performance needs, climate, and building goals.

Interior view of The Museum of the Moving Image (MOMI)

Avoiding the Dual Vapor Barrier Trap—Why Mineral Wool Is a Smart Choice for Commercial Walls

Why understanding vapor permeability—not just R-value—can make or break the long-term performance of commercial wall assemblies.

Todd Shear

February 4, 2026

No Comments

Whether you’re a specifying architect, general contractor or facility manager, virtually everyone in commercial construction is under pressure to meet energy codes and build tighter envelopes. But without careful consideration, that approach can unintentionally create a dual vapor barrier.