DuPont Building Innovations commissioned a new study on membrane durability, which was conducted by SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden. The results of the study revealed significant differences between Tyvek and the multi-layer membranes available on the market. Claudio Greco, a representative of DuPont, explains.
Why was the study repeated?
The first study of Tyvek membranes was conducted 12 years ago. The second was prompted by the situation on the market – poor-quality films appeared that began to leak water, causing building walls and roofs to become damp and moldy. Roofing associations in Germany and France became concerned and began to strictly check the materials used. This prompted another investigation into the durability of membranes.
The aim of the study
“We wanted independent experts to confirm the properties of Tyvek and show what damage poor-quality membranes can cause. If the wrong membranes are chosen, the entire roof structure may have to be replaced, which is financially disastrous,” explains C. Greco.
The study was also important for large clients, such as the renovation project of St. Augustine’s Church in the United Kingdom.
What properties were tested?
The main focus was on the resistance of the membranes to UV rays and temperature, which are the two most important factors determining their effectiveness.
The main focus was on the resistance of membranes to UV rays and temperature – these are the two most important factors determining their effectiveness. If a membrane cannot withstand these effects, it becomes permeable to water and wind, which means significant heat loss.
Test methods
The SP Institute conducted artificial ageing tests: the membranes were exposed to UV rays and high temperatures (90 °C). This temperature was chosen deliberately, as it is the maximum temperature that can be reached under metal roofs.
Results
The tests showed that after 45 weeks of testing, the Tyvek membranes remained waterproof, while the multilayer films lost their properties.
- UV testing: the multi-layer films cracked and leaked water, while Tyvek remained impermeable.
- Heat testing: at a temperature of 90 °C, Tyvek remained waterproof, even though the standard only requires resistance to 70 °C.
What makes the difference?
Tyvek’s advantage is ensured by its unique structure: the functional layer is 5-8 times thicker than most multi-layer membranes. This is what determines its resistance to water, wind, and vapor permeability.
Conclusions
The study confirmed that Tyvek membranes are reliable and durable. Although they make up only a small part of the roof or wall, their importance is enormous. If their protective properties are lost, there is a risk of:
- expensive renovations,
- heating losses,
- mold growth,
- damaged finishes.
Tyvek helps to avoid these problems, saves energy, and maintains the value of the building in the long term.