Wall Wraps Guide

Ensuring Compliance with NCC 2019 Condensation Management: Your Guide to Wall Wraps

When it comes to building construction, managing condensation is crucial to ensure the longevity and safety of your structures, especially in rainy Melbourne. The NCC 2019 provided a clear guidelines on how to comply with condensation management requirements, particularly for external walls. At Socrates Building Supplies, we offer a range of products designed to meet these standards effectively and maintaining a low cost. 

Understanding NCC 2019 Requirements

The National Construction Code (NCC) 2019 sets forth specific clauses to manage condensation effectively. Here’s an excerpt to comply with the key requirements:

Volume 1: F6.2 and Volume 2: 3.8.7.2 Part (a)

Builder need to install a pliable building membrane that meets the following criteria:

1. Compliance with AS/NZS 4200.1: The membrane must meet the standards set out in AS/NZS 4200.1.
2. Installation in Accordance with AS 4200.2: Proper installation as per AS 4200.2 guidelines is essential.
3. Vapour Permeable for Climate Zones 6, 7, and 8: For these climate zones, the membrane should be vapour permeable.
4. External Installation: The membrane should be installed on the exterior side of the primary insulation layer of the wall assemblies forming the building’s external envelope.

Volume 2: 3.8.7.2 Part (b)

This clause requires a drained cavity when no water barrier membrane is installed. In standard brick veneer construction, a drained cavity is typically included by design. However, the influence of wind pressure can lead to external moisture ingress, which makes the use of a water barrier membrane with suitable permeability highly recommended. This is especially true during construction to facilitate internal work progress.

SuperStrong Product Selection and Applications

At Socrates Building Supplies, we offer three main types of SuperStrong wraps that comply with NCC 2019 requirements:

1. Roof & Wall Wrap

   • Description: Provides extra protection for external building frames, offering a weather barrier with high water holdout. Ideal for BCA Climate Zones 1 – 5.
   • Applications: To be installed behind brick veneer in compliance with NCC 2019 clauses 3.8.7.2 (a).

2.  Breather

   • Description: A non-water barrier perforated foil wrap designed for use behind brick veneer. It serves as a secondary protective weather barrier and sarking material.
   • Applications: Suitable for use in any climate zone with a drained cavity, particularly behind brick veneer.

3.  Permea

   • Description: A fire retardant, vapour permeable, absorbent, flexible, tri-laminate, synthetic non-woven building wrap. It provides a secondary protective weather-resistant layer preventing moisture accumulation.
   • Applications: Ideal for Climate Zones 6-8, suitable for both brick veneer and lightweight cladding.

Why Choose these Products?

• Compliance: All our products meet or exceed the AS/NZS 4200 requirements.
• Durability: Engineered to provide long-lasting protection and withstand harsh conditions.
• Energy Efficiency: Helps create more energy-efficient structures by managing moisture and air flow effectively.
• Ease of Installation: Designed for quick and easy installation, reducing construction time.

Conclusion

Managing condensation effectively is crucial for the structural integrity and longevity of buildings. By using SuperStrong wraps from Socrates Building Supplies, you can ensure compliance with NCC 2019 requirements and provide superior protection for your structures. Whether you’re working on a residential or commercial project, our range of SuperStrong products offers the durability, efficiency, and compliance you need.