High-Performance Wall Assemblies for Modular Buildings are revolutionizing the building industry, offering speed, efficiency, and high-quality results. At the heart of the modular building method is a high-quality wall assembly, which must provide superior thermal performance, structural integrity, moisture control, and fire resistance. By using premium materials, builders can achieve high-performance wall assemblies that meet and exceed modern building standards, and the standard building code.
Key Components for Building High-Performance Wall Assemblies for Modular Buildings
Exterior Insulation
Rockwool Cavityrock® insulation is renowned for its excellent thermal and acoustic properties, as well as its fire resistance. Cavityrock® is a semi-rigid insulation board designed for exterior cavity wall and rainscreen applications. Offering superior long-term thermal efficiency, fire resistance, and moisture control, it’s compatible with numerous framing systems and cladding attachment systems.
In a high-performance wall assembly, Rockwool Cavityrock® insulation is installed within the wall cavities. Its semi-rigid nature allows it to fit snugly between studs, minimizing thermal bridging and enhancing overall energy efficiency. Additionally, its vapor-permeable nature allows moisture to escape, reducing the risk of mold and mildew.
Steel Framing
Structural integrity is crucial in modular construction, and Bailey Metal Structural Steel provides a robust framework for wall assemblies. Steel is strong, durable, and resistant to pests and rot, making it an ideal material for the demanding conditions of modular buildings. Bailey Metal’s precision-engineered components ensure a consistent and reliable structure, which is essential for the prefabrication process.
Using steel studs and tracks from Bailey Metal, wall panels can be constructed with high precision in a controlled factory environment. This consistency reduces on-site errors and speeds up the construction process. Moreover, steel’s recyclability contributes to the sustainability of the building, aligning with green building practices.
Exterior Sheathing
CertainTeed GlasRoc exterior wall panels provide a durable and weather-resistant exterior finish for modular buildings. These panels are made from gypsum with a glass mat facer, offering superior resistance to moisture and mold. They are also lightweight and easy to handle, which simplifies the installation process in both factory and field settings.
CertainTeed’s GlasRoc Sheathing is a high-performance, non-combustible gypsum-based sheathing that offers exceptional fire resistance, moisture resistance, and mold resistance for exterior wall and roof systems. Made from a combination of gypsum core and fiberglass mat facers, the product is engineered to withstand the elements and provide long-lasting performance.
Air & Vapour Membranes
Effective air and moisture control is vital for the longevity and performance of a building. Soprema Sopraseal air/vapour barrier membrane is designed to provide a continuous and durable barrier against air leakage and water infiltration. This self-adhered membrane is easy to apply and adheres well to various substrates, ensuring a tight seal around penetrations and joints.
Incorporating Sopraseal into the wall assembly helps maintain indoor air quality and thermal comfort by preventing drafts and condensation. Its high perm rating allows for controlled vapor transmission, which is essential for managing moisture within the wall cavity. By protecting the building envelope from the elements, Sopraseal extends the life of the wall assembly and reduces maintenance costs.
Building high-performance wall assemblies for modular buildings requires careful selection and integration of premium materials. The products and brands listed about each contribute unique benefits that enhance the overall performance, durability, and safety of the wall assembly. By leveraging these materials, builders can create modular structures that meet the highest standards of energy efficiency, fire resistance, and moisture control, ensuring long-lasting value and comfort for occupants.
