Airtight Coatings
This surface coating technique prevents vapour and air leaks through the walls of buildings, reducing the occurrence of damp as well as heat loss through the walls.
How do airtight coatings work?
Airtight coatings create a continuous seal around the surface of application, reducing or eliminating vapour and air leaks through cracks in the fabric of a building. They usually come in the form of a specially formulated membrane, foam, plaster or paint, and are applied to surfaces using methods including spraying, rolling, or brushing.
Once applied, the airtight coating adheres to the substrate and forms a continuous layer, impenetrable by air and even vapour, depending on your chosen coating. It fills in any gaps and cracks, meaning the coating is seamless across the surface.
Many airtight coatings are designed to be flexible and elastic, so they can accommodate any movement within the building’s structure without cracking or breaking. This enhances the durability and longevity of the coating.
Common applications
Airtight coatings are suitable for both new builds and refurbishment projects, and can be used in a range of applications such as:
- Sealing cracks and gaps in the walls, floors and ceilings of residential buildings
- Reducing energy costs by reducing airflow through the walls, ceilings and floors of commercial structures like offices and retail spaces
- Sealing building envelopes and controlling moisture in industrial facilities such as warehouses
- Maintaining a clean, controlled indoor environment in hospitals and healthcare settings
- Reducing heating and cooling loads in schools and universities
- Preserving historical structures by sealing gaps and cracks without compromising the integrity and aesthetics of the building
- Improving energy performance in renovation and retrofit projects
Suitable Surfaces
Airtight coatings come in many different forms, which means different types can be applied to a large variety of surfaces. These surfaces include:
- Masonry surfaces such as brick and stone
- Concrete
- Wood
- Metals such as steel and aluminium
- Membranes
- Render
- Drywall
- Plastic and composite materials such as PVC and fibreglass
Benefits of Airtight Coatings
Improved energy efficiency
Reduced risk of damp or mould
Prevention of water damage from leaks
Reduced carbon emissions
Performance regulation compliance
SCI has extensive experience in applying airtight coatings to improve comfort and energy efficiency in both industrial and commercial spaces.
We work with ICORR and SSPC certified inspectors to guarantee compliance. View our full list of accreditations including ConstructionLine Gold and Acclaim Health & Safety on our about page.
For more information about our AIRTIGHT coating services
