Healthy

While the Durisol ICF material is inert with no VOCs or off-gasing, the cement content of the Durisol material creates an above average pH environment at the wall surface, that inhibits the growth of fungi and mould. Furthermore, the hygroscopic nature of the material moderate’s relative humidity levels (65% RH maximum) and provides an inherent moisture regulator that keeps humidity low and further serves to repress any type of fungal growth.

Click the following on more information regarding Durisol ICF and Indoor Air Quality

Termite Resistant

Unlike wood and other non-hygroscopic material, Durisol ICF provides effective resistance to termite attack. A number of testing programs have been conducted by independent agencies such as the U.S. Forestry Service. Durisol samples were placed in termite infested areas for as long as six years without any destruction of the Durisol material.

SOUND PROTECTION

Durisol wall systems provide considerable protection against unwanted noise. The sound absorptive properties of our material in combination with the mass of the wall system can provide an ideal combination of sound absorption and sound transmission properties. STC ratings for Durisol wall systems can range between 54 and 72, while the exposed surface of the Durisol Wall Form can provide Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) ratings as high as 1.0.

THERMALMASS EFFECT

Materials like concrete, brick, and Durisol have a high heat capacity; that is, they can store a significant amount of heat energy. This benefit of thermal mass, as the ability to store heat results in reduced heating costs as the energy/heat in the wall is transferred back into the cooler air. Similarly, when the surrounding air is warmer than the walls, heat will be transferred to the thermal mass and reduce cooling energy consumption. The benefits of thermal mass are increased through the use of Durisol Wall Forms with insulated inserts since the majority of the insulation is located on the exterior face of the wall system. This is unlike foam concrete forms that have 50% of the insulation on the interior face and reduce the net benefit that is obtained through the effects of thermal mass.

The true benefit that is realized from thermal mass effects depends on a number of site-specific parameters such as climatic conditions and building orientation. Simple blanket statements such as “R-6.9 when including thermal mass” are inaccurate and misleading. Durisol Australia has a staff of engineers experienced in the field of Building Science who will provide customers with detailed evaluation of thermal mass effects upon request. Alternately, publications such as ASHRAE Fundamentals or ASHRAE Standard 90.1 will provide guidance to evaluation of different wall systems and corresponding dynamic effects.

MOISTUREPROTECTION

Since no exterior finish will act as a perfect rain barrier, it is good practice to have a wall system that is capable of compensating for imperfections in the veneer. In the event that moisture does become temporarily trapped within the wall, the Durisol wall system is capable of accommodating this moisture without any damage to itself. Damage to other wall components is of course a possibility. Although the Durisol material will not prevent moisture damage, it will mitigate the effects of moisture penetration through the exterior weather barrier. The behaviour of Durisol in this regard is similar to any other type of cement based product with moisture storage capability – such as concrete masonry. The permeable nature of the Durisol material serves to regulate the water vapour in the air and provides a smoothing effect to rapid swings in relative humidity.

TERMITE RESISTANCE

Durisol provides effective resistance to termite attack. A number of testing programs have been conducted where Durisol samples were placed in termite infested areas for as long as six years without any destruction of Durisol material occurring.