From stucco and stone, to glass and wood, a glance at any new commercial construction market shows a trend toward mixed-material facades for buildings of all types. Beneath those beautiful cladding selections are specific requirements for sheathings and the air- and water-barrier layers needed for the wall assemblies behind them. But what happens when building codes or design elements create an environment of differing substrates beneath the cladding? And how do builders approach water-resistive barrier (WRB) continuity in these situations?
Whether it’s a concrete column or a cinder block stairwell that interrupts a wall assembly, builders must give special attention to WRB continuity where differing substrates meet. The joints between dissimilar materials are susceptible to movement, which presents a challenge when trying to maintain a continuous WRB. Failure to ensure a cohesive wall assembly and uninterrupted barrier layers can be detrimental to overall building performance. Knowing that, builders should have a reliable system of compatible sheathings, WRB options, and accessories at the ready.