BlueSkin issues
We installed BlueSkin, a peel and stick waterproof membrane, over the top plate in preparation for the trusses as part of the air barrier of the exterior. It was installed with the primer provided and all the materials were dry and clean. The day was hot so the membrane was very sticky and we had good adhesion when it was applied. There was no rain until early Sunday. Monday morning we found the membrane had let go on the majority of the OSB areas. In some places literally flapping in the wind.
A few calls to the reps and we learned that the water based BlueSkin primer is not recommended for OSB. They also recommend you apply the membrane on the smooth side of the OSB which is the interior. This is not possible in our application of using it to create an air tight layer, framing is in the way of creating a continuous air barrier. We could install the OSB in reverse but the nailing lines are only on the rough side and we question if this will cause an issue with our building inspection.
We had a supplier rep out to check on the problem and he tested the moisture content in the OSB and said it was fine. We scrambled to find the solvent based primer and tested a strip on the OSB overnight to ensure it adhered properly. We found smoothing it down with a hard roller helped with the bond as well.
We used the recommended solvent based primer today and smooth it down with a hard roller. This definitely improved the adhesion but I am not 100% happy with the bond. Still pondering whether to take extra measures or wait for the first blower door test.
2 Comments for this entry
Natalie
Thanks for the tip… we will give that a try on the next project.
kevin
I have no idea how old this blog is but thought I would give advice anyways. use a heat gun and heat the blue skin until it starts to melt. When it begins to melt apply the blueskin. This will give you a permanent bond on any surface. You don’t even need primer. On very cold days when the blueskin will not bond I use a heat gun.