Building Membranes & Adhesives

What is a Damp Proof Membrane?

Damp Proof Membranes (DPMs) are barriers often used in construction to prevent moisture from penetrating floors and walls. Made typically from a thick polyethylene sheeting, DPMs are often laid under concrete floors and walls to block moisture rising from the ground, thereby protecting interior spaces from dampness and mould.

What is a Breather Membrane?

A Breather Membrane is a semi-permeable layer that is designed to allow water vapour to escape from within a building while preventing liquid water from entering. They are installed on the “cold” side of a wall or roof structure (the “outward face” to ensure that the structure remains dry and free from condensation, which can lead to structural damage and poor insulation performance.

What is a Vapour Control Layer?

Vapour Control Layers (VCLs) are installed on the “warm” side of a wall or roof structure to limit the amount of water vapour that can pass through the structure. Unlike breather membranes, VCLs are designed to block vapour rather than allow it to pass, which helps prevent condensation within walls and roofs that leads to insulation degradation and structural damage. 

What is a Gas Barrier?

A Gas Barrier is a membrane used to prevent hazardous gases, such as radon, methane, and carbon dioxide, from entering a building. These barriers are especially important in areas with contaminated ground or high levels of natural gas emissions. Made from robust, impermeable materials, gas barriers are installed beneath the foundation to provide a protective seal, requiring an airtight seal with appropriate overlap tape.

What is a Radiant Barrier?

Many of our multifoil insulation products function as an insulation, a Vapour Control / Breather Membrane, and a Radiant Barrier. Radiant Barriers are designed to reflect radiant heat rather than absorb it. These barriers are typically installed in the attic or roof space to reduce heat transfer, keeping buildings cooler in summer and warmer in winter. By reflecting heat away, radiant barriers improve the energy efficiency of a building.

Our Popular Brands of VCLs, Breather Membranes and Damp Proofing

• Novia
• SuperFOIL
• YBS SuperQuilt
• NDC Polipak
• Visqueen
• TLX
• Actis