Rethinking the building envelope: Incorporating rigid air barriers as the foundation of modern facade design

Good facade design plays a critical role in high-performing Australian buildings, from managing condensation and preventing water penetration to resisting fire spread. A variety of cladding materials, such as fibre cement, terracotta, and zinc, offer architects and builders significant design flexibility. However, traditional facade design and installation methods have often fallen short in key areas.

A 2019 study by Deakin and Griffith Universities found that building defects related to external wall systems, particularly cladding, are common across Australia. Of the 2012 defect reports analysed, 33% related to water penetration caused by poorly-fitted cladding or ineffective waterproofing. Fire performance defects are also widespread.

As new buildings push architectural limits in height and complexity, they present unique challenges, such as extreme weather, numerous joints, and higher demands for airtightness, efficiency, and durability. These challenges make compliance with traditional methods more difficult, requiring new approaches to facade design and construction to meet stricter demands for energy efficiency, resilience, and fire protection.

Rigid air barriers have emerged as a key component for future external wall systems. These high-performance weather barriers are designed to meet changing industry requirements and withstand Australia’s unpredictable climate.