Airtightness & vapor control layers for a secure building envelope
The complete system
What makes up an airtight building envelope?
Airtightness is not a single product – it is a system. Only when vapour barrier membrane, tapes, connection adhesive and penetration grommets are coordinated does a permanently airtight building envelope result. Leaky connections or unsuitable products can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the entire insulation.
Vapour barriers
Classic PE vapour barriers with an sd value of 145 m – building authority approved, economical and suitable for all common constructions in structural engineering.
To vapour barriers → IntelligentMoisture-variable vapour barriers
Automatically adjust their diffusion resistance – for safe drying in modern timber construction and renovation. pro clima INTELLO PLUS and more.
To moisture-variable systems → ConnectionBonding & adhesive technology
Tapes, connection adhesives and grommets for airtight overlaps, connections and penetrations – coordinated with Targo and pro clima membranes.
To bonding products →Tested brand systems
Targo and pro clima – two system manufacturers, one range
We stock coordinated systems from two of the leading manufacturers for airtightness and building envelope: Targo from Switzerland and pro clima from Germany. Both manufacturers offer complete systems of membranes, tapes, connection adhesives and accessories – for reliable, permanently airtight constructions.
Targo brand world
Vapour barrier membranes, airtightness membranes, sub-roof and wall sheathing membranes plus adhesive technology from Switzerland – for roof, wall and façade.
pro clima brand world
INTELLO PLUS, DB+, SOLITEX and more – the complete pro clima range with airtightness membranes, tapes, connection adhesives, grommets and liquid airtightness products.
Choosing the right vapour barrier
Classic vapour barrier or moisture-variable system?
The choice of the right vapour barrier depends on the construction, use and requirements. Classic PE films are economical and proven – moisture-variable systems offer additional safety through active drying.
| Criterion | Classic vapour barrier | Moisture-variable vapour barrier |
|---|---|---|
| Operating principle | Fixed sd value (e.g. 145 m) – constant diffusion resistance | Variable sd value – adjusts to room humidity |
| Drying | Limited – construction must be installed dry | Active – moisture can escape in summer |
| Typical application | Standard constructions in structural engineering, new builds | Timber construction, renovation, blow-in insulation, vapour-open structures |
| Price | Economical – from EUR 0.95/m² | Higher – but greater planning security |
| Example products | Blue/white vapour barrier, dust protection membrane RB | pro clima INTELLO PLUS, DB+, Targo systems |
Not sure which system is right? We are happy to advise: +49 6261 17613
Specialist retailer with hands-on site experience
Airtightness from practice – not just from the catalogue
As a specialist contractor for blow-in insulation, we know the requirements for airtightness from daily practice. We know where connections fail, which tapes hold permanently and which vapour barrier suits which construction. This experience is reflected in our product selection and in our advice.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions about airtightness & vapour barriers
Why is airtightness so important for insulation?
Leaks in the building envelope allow warm indoor air to escape – carrying moisture with it, which can condense as water within the construction. This reduces the insulation's effectiveness, damages the structure and significantly lowers energy efficiency. Airtight execution is therefore a fundamental requirement for any effective thermal insulation.
What is the difference between a vapour barrier and a vapour check?
A vapour barrier (sd value below 1,500 m) allows a small amount of water vapour to diffuse through, enabling some drying. A vapour check (sd value above 1,500 m) is virtually diffusion-tight. For most residential and timber construction applications, vapour barriers are the right choice.
When do I need a moisture-variable vapour barrier?
Moisture-variable vapour barriers are particularly useful in renovation, blow-in insulation applications, vapour-open structures and timber construction. They offer an additional safety margin by enabling active drying of the construction in summer.
Which tapes are compatible with my vapour barrier?
Tapes should be matched to the specific vapour barrier and the substrate. We stock coordinated systems from Targo and pro clima and are happy to advise on the right combination for your construction.
What is a dust protection membrane?
The dust protection membrane RB is laid beneath mineral wool or cellulose insulation and prevents insulation fibres or particles from falling into the living space. It is not a substitute for a vapour barrier but a supplementary protective layer.
Can I combine vapour barriers and tapes from different manufacturers?
This is technically possible but not recommended. System manufacturers such as Targo and pro clima test their products together and offer system guarantees. These guarantees are void when products from different manufacturers are combined. We recommend staying within one system.
Plan your airtight building envelope
Choose the right vapour barrier system now.
From economical own-brand products to the complete pro clima or Targo system.