Sto Corp., a producer of a range of cladding and coating systems for building construction, maintenance, and restoration, launched StoGuard, a fluid applied weather barrier, to the residential market. StoGuard is on display at the NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS) through Feb. 6, 2014 in booth C9410 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
StoGuard is a fluid applied weather barrier that is easy for contractors to install. According to a study performed by Jackson Productivity Research Inc., StoGuard fluid applied membrane is faster and easier to apply than traditional housewraps. The study found that contractors can install StoGuard three times faster than sheet wraps when installed properly, saving up to 70 percent in labor costs.
StoGuard can be sprayed on or applied with a roller — a similar process to painting — and requires no special training. This reduces the risk of improper installation, which can lead to moisture intrusion problems. Also, unlike some solvent-based building materials, StoGuard has low VOCs and complies with U.S. EPA and South Coast AQMD emission standards for architectural coatings. No additional breathing apparatus or special handling is necessary.
“We are excited to introduce StoGuard to the residential audience as we have seen great success with this product in the commercial segment. With energy savings and environmentally conscious building being a high priority for homeowners, StoGuard is an ideal product. It can help to reduce energy consumption and has a low impact on the environment, resulting in both a cost savings and peace of mind,” said John Chamberlin, product manager of StoGuard for Sto Corp.
StoGuard is fully adhered without a mechanical attachment, meaning it does not require the use of staples, nails, or other means of attachment to adhere to the wall. This reduces the number of penetrations in the barrier, minimizing the opportunities for moisture and air intrusion and lowering the chances for damage to the membrane during the construction process. In addition, StoGuard is bonded to the sheathing. Unlike traditional housewrap products, it does not require mechanical fastening, and will not tear, rip, or blow off during construction.
StoGuard is also energy efficient. Statistics provided by the U.S. Department of Energy show up to 40 percent of the energy consumed to heat or cool a building is due to air leakage. Using StoGuard helps prevent this leakage, thus reducing energy costs, and qualifies for the following LEED credits – Materials & Resources (MR) Credit 1.1 and 1.2.
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