A new technical bulletin from BASF Wall Systems describes a key test and two acceptance criteria that should be considered when evaluating air/water-resistive barriers. The purpose and procedures of each qualification are outlined. Results of tests conducted on BASF’s Enershield air/water-resistive barriers are also included, as well as summary discussions of the meaning of the results.

ASTM E 2357 Air Leakage of Air Barrier Assemblies is a key test designed to determine whether air barrier products, when used with other typical wall components, collectively function as an air barrier assembly. The acceptance criteria covered in the document are ICC-ES AC148 Acceptance Criteria for Flexible Flashing Materials and ICC-ES AC212 Acceptance Criteria for Water-Resistive Coatings used as Water-Resistive Barriers over Exterior Sheathing. Both were completed according to test methods established by the International Code Council for demonstrating the effectiveness of water-resistive barrier and flexible flashing materials. The bulletin recommends that specifiers require the results of these tests along with testing required by the Air Barrier Association of America to qualify acceptable materials for their specifications.

For additional details or to download the bulletin, visit www.enershield.basf.com.