Mortairvent from Benjamin Obdyke Incorporated is a two-ply mortar deflection and ventilation system that is specifically designed for use behind manufactured stone, stucco, EIFS, and brick to keep exterior walls dry and free from moisture that causes deterioration due to mold and rot. A strategic alliance between Benjamin Obdyke and Advanced Building Products Inc. brought the innovative product to market.
Chosen as one of 2008’s most innovative products at the World of Concrete international industry event, Mortairvent has been very well received because of the growing popularity of manufactured stone, EIFS, and stucco as home exterior coverings. When installed, it creates a ventilation cavity between the vapor barrier and the exterior wall. The blue polymer core matrix forms the air space, while the attached filter fabric blocks mortar droppings from seeping into the newly formed cavity, while still allowing moisture to pass through.
Current construction designs call for manufactured stone to be applied directly against the metal lath, which is placed against the plywood sheathing and housewrap. This technique allows any moisture that penetrates the exterior cladding to become trapped between the cladding and the interior plywood sheathing. Now building science experts are recommending a rainscreen system as the optimum method of wall construction in masonry applications to allow the trapped moisture to drain. Rainscreen systems provide a continuous ventilation and drainage space and are especially effective in areas prone to excessive moisture, high temperatures, and humidity.
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