Benjamin Obdyke introduces new housewrap solution
Benjamin Obdyke is combining the benefits of its popular HydroGap drainable housewrap and the air-sealing benefits of an adhesive backing with the introduction of HydroGap SA, the industry’s first and only self-adhered drainable weather-resistive barrier (WRB).
HydroGap SA features a 100% continuous acrylic adhesive, providing sealing around cladding fasteners to help maintain the integrity of the air barrier.
Benjamin Obdyke said that it has spent nearly five years developing HydroGap SA, and the resulting adhesive hits the ideal sweet spot—ensuring the WRB adheres to the sheathing but allowing for it to be repositioned upon initial application. It is also one of the few breathable, fully adhered acrylic adhesives, with a perm rating of 12 that is suitable for all climates.
As an acrylic, the adhesive is UV resistant, with an exposure rating of 120 days, and can be installed in temperatures as low as 25 degrees F without a primer. It also increases the housewrap’s tear-resistance and, by providing full contact with the sheathing, diminishes the chance for ballooning and blow-off. HydroGap SA also has a reinforcing scrim that helps it hold tight during application to avoid wrinkles.
Like the original HydroGap, the new self-adhered WRB features 1mm spacers on the surface to create a true drainage space with 96% drain efficiency, shedding water two times faster than traditional flat housewraps and helping to prevent the damaging effects of mold and rot.
“Part of our extensive product development was listening to contractors’ needs and getting the product into their hands to try it. Their feedback guided much of our decision-making,” said Kaylen Handly, technical innovation manager for Benjamin Obdyke. “The result of those efforts is a product that combines the water-shedding benefits of a drainable housewrap with additional air-sealing properties to further protect the wall cavity. HydroGap SA works as a system along with flashing accessories and building science-based installation techniques to create high-performing building envelopes that limit air and moisture intrusion.”
HydroGap SA features a robust split-release liner for ease of application and positioning. The product’s acrylic adhesive also provides a unique characteristic of being repositionable during installation. Once an installer is satisfied with the wrap placement, pressure is applied to fully activate the adhesive bond.
The installation method helps contractors create a monolithic water and air barrier, ensuring protection in the most vulnerable areas of the wall system.
HydroGap SA comes in 80-foot-long rolls. It includes a 15-year product warranty or a 20-year limited system warranty when used in conjunction with the HydroFlash product line.