Air Barrier

When you plan a new home or major renovation in North Texas, you'll often hear the term air barrier. An air barrier is a continuous layer of materials—membranes, tapes, or sprays—installed around the building's envelope to keep outdoor air out and indoor air in. It seals your walls and roof to control the movement of air through the structure. By reducing unwanted drafts and the moisture those drafts carry, an air barrier helps regulate temperature, humidity, and energy consumption.

In Dallas–Fort Worth's hot summers and unpredictable winter cold snaps, a properly installed air barrier can mean the difference between a comfortable home with manageable utility bills and a house that always feels drafty. When roofing contractors mention installing an air barrier, they're talking about a vital step in ensuring your home's comfort, efficiency, and durability.

What is an air barrier in roofing and how does it work?

An air barrier is a specialized, continuous layer of membranes or coatings applied to the building envelope. Its primary job is to control air movement and prevent drafts, moisture intrusion, and energy loss. By creating a seamless seal, it prevents the uncontrolled leakage of conditioned air out of the home and unconditioned, humid North Texas air into the living space.

When is an air barrier installed during your North Texas roofing project? For new construction and major residential roofing remodels, the air barrier is installed after the framing and sheathing are completed, but before the roof shingles or exterior cladding are applied. The process involves:

1. Inspection: Ensuring sheathing joints are tight and gaps are filled.

2. Application: Applying membranes or liquid coatings directly to the sheathing and sealing all penetrations like plumbing vents.

3. Integration: Connecting the barrier to the roof underlayment and foundation to ensure no gaps exist.

Why does a proper air barrier matter for Dallas homeowners? In the Dallas–Fort Worth climate, a continuous air barrier is essential for thermal performance. It reduces uncontrolled air leakage—which can account for 25% to 50% of a building's heating and cooling loads. Beyond lower utility costs, a proper barrier improves indoor air quality by keeping pollutants and allergens out and prevents condensation and mold growth within attic spaces.

How does Arrington Roofing ensure energy efficiency with air barriers? At Arrington Roofing, we treat your home as a complete system. Our team uses industry-leading air barrier and underlayment products from brands like GAF and Owens Corning, installed strictly according to manufacturer specifications. We ensure all seams, corners, and penetrations are sealed to prevent the drafts and high energy bills associated with poor installation. Book a free roof and envelope inspection today to learn how a properly installed air barrier can protect your investment.