Wraptite helps Chester le Street school achieve energy efficiency grade

Wraptite tape ensured airtightness and vapour permeability behind rainscreen cladding in the newly refurbished Chester le Street Primary School. The refurbishment was part of an on-going commitment by Durham County Council to upgrade its primary schools.

Wraptite Tape was specified behind rainscreen cladding because it combined the essential properties of airtightness and vapour permeability.

Meeting regulation and energy efficiency targets

Latest regulations and energy efficiency targets in buildings mean the design of airtight buildings is at the top for the sustainability agenda.

Airtightness is central in the design of new buildings and in building refurbishment programmes.

Wraptite Tape was installed by contractors Midas Cladding in conjunction with Kingspan Rainscreen Insulation Board behind the new rainscreen cladding.

Typically an aluminium coated Butyl adhesive tape would be used to seal joints, openings and penetrations. Whilst providing a seal against air leakage, these tapes may not only prevent air, but also prevent the movement of moisture vapour, leading to potential problems and damage to the boards underneath over time. Due to the nature of the project being a refurbishment, breathable felt was not suitable for the Vapour Control Layer (VCL) as it would come into direct contact with the rear cladding surface, and conflict with specified continuous air flow ventilation methods. The introduction of the Wraptite Tape solved all issues with airflow, and necessary air clearances to ensure a continuous Vapour Control Layer to the existing Building.

Why was Wraptite Tape selected?

Provides an effective airtight barrier plus high vapour permeability allows damp sheathing to dry quickly, and moisture vapour to escape, ensuring good indoor air quality and reducing the likelihood of mould, mildew, condensation, timber distortion and metal corrosion.

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