Corrosion Control: Are Weather Resistive Membranes Effective for Protecting Steel Framing Systems?

Building in coastal environments presents unique challenges, particularly when it comes to corrosion control. Coastal construction is a battle against nature, where metal, moisture, and salt collide to create a perfect storm for corrosion. In this blog, we explore how weather resistive membranes can protect steel framing systems and extend the lifespan of your buildings.

Key Factors Behind Corrosion

1. Metal exposure: Steel framing is susceptible to rust when exposed to moisture and salt.
2. Moisture penetration: Rain, sea spray, or condensation can seep into wall cavities.
3. Salt accumulation: Salt deposits from the air or trapped moisture can amplify corrosion over time.

The solution? An effective corrosion prevention strategy that starts from the construction phase and continues throughout the building’s lifespan.

Protecting During the Construction Phase

Preventing corrosion begins with using the right materials and strategies:

• Choose corrosion-resistant materials: Opt for marine-grade aluminium alloys or hot-dip galvanised steel for framing.
• Use quality fasteners: Stainless steel or heavily galvanised connectors perform well in salty air.
• Install weather resistive barriers early: Like putting on a raincoat before a storm, installing a weather resistive membrane as soon as possible minimises exposure to moisture and salt.

The Long-Term Role of Weather Resistive Membranes

Once construction is complete, long-term corrosion prevention hinges on a high-quality weather resistive membrane. Modern monolithic membranes are particularly effective for coastal environments due to their unique properties:

1. Waterproofing: Keeps rain and sea spray out.
2. Air sealing: Blocks salty air from entering wall cavities.
3. Vapour permeability: Allows trapped moisture to escape, preventing condensation buildup.

How Do Monolithic Membranes Work?

Unlike membranes with pores, monolithic membranes use diffusion to let water vapour pass through without allowing liquid water or air infiltration. Think of it as your building’s “breathable skin” – protective yet flexible.

These membranes also help manage condensation, a hidden but serious threat. When condensation forms on steel framing inside a wall cavity, it creates a highly corrosive environment, especially if salt was introduced during construction. Pairing a vapour-permeable membrane with a thoughtful design ensures that condensation stays outside the cavity.

5 Essential Steps for Corrosion Prevention

Follow these best practices to protect steel framing systems in coastal areas:

1. Start protection early: Install weather-resistive membranes immediately during construction.
2. Choose high-quality membranes: Look for durable, monolithic membranes with proven performance in coastal environments.
3. Ensure proper installation: Pay attention to seams and penetrations. Use high-quality, durable adhesive tapes to seal joins effectively.
4. Think holistically: Integrate your weather resistive membranes with insulation and cladding systems for comprehensive protection.
5. Manage moisture effectively: Design buildings to prevent condensation from forming within the wall cavity.

Benefits of Weather-Resistant Membranes in Coastal Construction

By combining water and air resistance with vapor permeability, weather-resistive membranes create a safe environment where metal components remain protected. The result? Steel framing systems that resist rust and corrosion, even in harsh coastal conditions.

Why Choose Sculptform’s Velo Facades?

At Sculptform, we’ve partnered with Proclima membranes to offer Velo Facades – a comprehensive cladding, membrane, and external insulation solution. Designed for coastal and challenging environments, Velo Facades delivers superior corrosion protection while enhancing energy efficiency and durability.