A successful water-resistive barrier is installed between the cladding and interior framing on the face of the sheathing or similar surface. Any gaps are properly sealed, so it stays continuous and intact.

DURABILITY IN THE DETAILS

Durability in educational buildings is the final consideration we will explore in this course. The goal is to design and specify spaces that will perform as intended over time, withstand the abuse from within (occupants) and without (environmental), and maintain aesthetic appeal and functionality. There are two key areas in educational buildings that require special attention to ensure the durability of the structure: water-resistive barriers (WRBs) and air barriers (ABs) on the exterior, and high-traffic flooring on the interior.

Starting with the exterior, the main function of the WRB is to help protect the wall assembly from bulk liquid water introduced from the exterior and direct it down and away from the building. The WRB is installed between the cladding and interior framing on the face of the sheathing or similar surface. The key to a successful WRB is that it is continuous and intact, meaning any gaps or penetrations are properly sealed.

An effective air barrier is also critical for the performance, health, and durability of educational buildings. A tight building envelope with a well-sealed air barrier can greatly improve energy efficiency, improve comfort, and promote IAQ goals. Modern air barriers must also effectively manage water vapor while maintaining the right level of permeability to ensure wall assemblies can dry. These barriers are designed not only to prevent air leakage but also to balance moisture control by allowing water vapor to escape from the interior spaces to the exterior. In educational settings, water vapor can be generated from cooking in the kitchens, showers in the gymnasium, or simply by occupants breathing. Removing this moisture is critical in preventing condensation and potential saturation within wall cavities, which can lead to mold growth, insulation and material degradation, and compromised indoor air quality. By allowing controlled vapor permeability, modern air barriers help maintain the structural integrity of the building envelope, ensuring that walls can dry out when exposed to moisture from either indoor activities or external weather conditions. This balance is essential in creating a healthy, long-lasting environment that supports the well-being of students and staff in educational settings.

Referring to the solution set we discussed earlier in the course, gypsum fiberglass-mat exterior boards can offer both a WRB and AB while also being the exterior sheathing option. Modern manufacturers of fiberglass-mat exterior sheathing have introduced products with proprietary formulations that integrate the gypsum core and the fiberglass mat to form a hydrophobic, monolithic surface that blocks bulk water but allows vapor to pass through. By retaining high permeability, these exterior boards enable moisture to pass through the wall in both directions in any climate. The benefit for educational buildings is that the sheathing allows wall assemblies to dry out if they get wet, helping to avoid mildew, mold, and deterioration.

Because of their inherently robust nature, gypsum fiberglass-mat exterior boards are resistant to delamination and deterioration due to weather exposure—even during construction delays that last as long as twelve months after installation. The ability to maintain integrity during delays or inclement weather on the jobsite helps ensure that the product will perform as expected when the final cladding is installed.

The other area where durability within the educational building can become a problem is any high-traffic area where water is a concern.

“What’s been interesting for us is to see where products like an integrated WRB sheathing system can help solve problems. Compression of construction timing, where schedule is important, especially if the project is happening in an area with a very small window in terms of weather or in certain conditions like high winds or the possibility of freezing rain,” says Chamberlain. That’s when you need to know you can get the system up quickly and trust that it’s intact without having concerns about appropriate curing times or if the structure will be dried in before a big storm comes. That’s when the flexibility around an integrated WRB sheathing system really comes into play.”

Educational buildings often have areas subject to high levels of moisture, such as bathrooms, locker rooms, kitchens, and science laboratories. In these spaces, moisture management is critical to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Again, looking at fiberglass mat gypsum boards as an alternative to traditional materials, we find several benefits. Non-cement board backer boards are engineered to resist moisture absorption while providing a stable base for tile and other finishes. Unlike cement boards, which can be prone to water absorption and degradation over time, non-cement boards may maintain their structural integrity even in damp conditions. This moisture resistance helps prevent warping, swelling, and other forms of damage that can occur with prolonged exposure to moisture, which may help to ensure the subfloor remains durable and reliable.

Fiberglass-mat gypsum boards are typically lighter and easier to cut than cement boards, reducing labor costs and speeding up installation.

As a bonus, installation of gypsum fiberglass-mat board is easier and faster than cement board backer installation. These boards are typically lighter and easier to cut than cement boards, reducing labor costs and speeding up the installation process. Moreover, they can be installed over a variety of subfloor types, including wood and concrete, providing architects with greater flexibility in design and material selection. Whether in high-moisture areas or high-traffic zones, these boards provide a reliable foundation that supports both the performance and longevity of the flooring system.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the design of educational buildings requires a thoughtful blend of innovative materials and strategic planning to overcome the unique challenges they present. By prioritizing noise control, safety, and durability, and leveraging modern solutions such as fiberglass-mat gypsum boards, architects can ensure that these buildings provide a conducive, safe, and resilient environment for students to learn. This comprehensive approach ultimately supports the mission of educational institutions to foster learning and growth in a supportive and sustainable setting.

SOURCES

Andrew A. Hunt is Vice President of Confluence Communications and specializes in writing, design, and production of articles and presentations related to sustainable design in the built environment. In addition to instructional design, writing, and project management, Andrew is an accomplished musician and voice over actor, providing score and narration for both the entertainment and education arena. www.confluencec.com, www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-a-hunt-91b747.