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Deconstructing Vapor Diffusion for Building Enclosures

Vapor permeable stone wool insulation for a better well-being.

Long term durability of a building enclosure is key. And designing a building that dries properly is crucial. Using vapor permeable CAVITYROCK® and COMFORTBOARD™ stone wool insulation boards, in the right place, can maximize the drying potential of your wall assembly and improve durability.

Safeguard your building enclosure with vapor permeable insulation.

Because a safer, healthier environment for those inside is the solution everyone’s looking for. Learn more by viewing our Vapor Diffusion and Condensation Control for Commercial Wall Assemblies guide.

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Vapor diffusion is generally thought of as a negative process but in reality it’s an important drying mechanism that can be used as part of the solution.

Moisture can affect:

The durability of your building enclosure

The overall performance of the building.

Read our post about designing with mold resistant insulation

This is how vapor typically moves:

This movement directly influences the placement of the materials within your wall assembly. Improper placement can lead to:

What is vapor diffusion

Vapor diffusion is the movement of water vapor molecules through porous materials as a result of vapor pressure differences. It’s one of four critical elements that affects the success of your building enclosure.

Stone wool vapor permeable insulation allows for greater outward drying than vapor impermeable insulation such as foam plastics.

Don’t trap moisture; allow it to dry.

Here’s how:

Minimize or manage wetting sources such as air or water leakage.

Maximize drying potential by using vapor permeable insulation such as stone wool in the right place.

Consider climate to ensure correct placement of materials within your wall assembly.

ROCKWOOL CAVITYROCK®

Fire and water resistant, ROCKWOOL CAVITYROCK® products are semi-rigid, stone wool insulation boards designed for exterior cavity and rainscreen applications. Also available in a black mat facer finish for open-joint cladding systems.

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