Air Barrier Market Research Report and Outlook by 2028

In 2022, the air barrier market was valued at approximately US$ 15,924.68 million and is anticipated to grow to around US$ 20,752.35 million by 2028, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.5% during this period.

An air barrier is a specialized material designed to control airflow between unconditioned and conditioned spaces. Essential characteristics of these systems include their ability to prevent airflow, provide continuous coverage across the entire building envelope, endure various forces throughout and after construction, and maintain durability throughout the building's lifespan. The increasing recognition of the advantages offered by air barriers is propelling their adoption across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors globally.

According to the US Energy Information Administration, buildings accounted for approximately 40% of total energy consumption in the United States in 2016. Implementing continuous air barriers can significantly reduce this energy usage by enhancing the airtightness of buildings. Compliance with several energy codes, such as the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and the DOE Zero Energy Ready Home program, has made the use of air barriers mandatory. Furthermore, the expansion of the residential construction market in various nations is also fueling the demand for air barriers. Fluid-applied air barriers are particularly gaining traction due to their adaptability, ease of application, and effectiveness on uneven surfaces. This trend is expected to further stimulate the growth of the air barrier market.

Manufacturers are increasingly investing in research and development to improve the properties and performance of air barriers. For instance, in October 2020, Dow launched its DOWSIL™ Silicone Air Barrier System aimed at commercial construction. This innovative system provides superior air and water protection, is user-friendly during installation, and adheres well to a variety of substrates. Such advancements in the air barrier sector are likely to boost product demand in the upcoming years, thereby contributing to market expansion.

The air barrier market is categorized into vapor permeable and vapor impermeable types. In 2021, the vapor impermeable segment dominated the market share. These impermeable barriers are particularly effective at preventing moisture from infiltrating wall cavities, offering optimal protection against moisture buildup in wall systems, especially in hot and humid climates. These attributes are expected to drive the growth of this segment throughout the forecast period.

The air barrier market is witnessing growth due to rising construction activities across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors worldwide. Air leakage in residential buildings can lead to higher heating and cooling expenses, moisture-related damage to walls, accumulation of pollutants and debris within wall interiors, and potential entry points for pests. To address these issues, air barriers are extensively utilized in residential construction. Additionally, increased disposable income and evolving lifestyle preferences are encouraging consumers to invest in modern and environmentally friendly building practices. The residential construction segment is the largest within the construction market, bolstered by government investments in housing and a growing demand for new homes and renovations. Moreover, significant investments in research and development for innovative barrier and insulation materials, such as cellulose and oriented strand board (OSB), are projected to further enhance the growth of the air barrier market.

Key players in the air barrier market include BASF SE, Dow Inc, 3M, W. R. Meadows Inc, GCP Applied Technologies Inc, CertainTeed LLC, Tamarack Materials Inc, VaproShield LLC, TK Products Construction Coating, Henry Co, Carlisle Companies Inc, and General Electric Co. These companies are committed to delivering high-quality products to meet customer needs and are focusing on strategies such as investing in research and development and launching new products.

The market size for the air barrier industry has been established through a combination of primary and secondary research methodologies. The research process commenced with comprehensive secondary research from both internal and external sources to collect qualitative and quantitative data relevant to the market. Additionally, numerous primary interviews were conducted with industry experts to validate the data and obtain valuable analytical insights. Participants in the industry, including vice presidents, business development managers, market intelligence managers, and national sales managers, along with external consultants such as valuation experts, research analysts, and key opinion leaders specializing in the air barrier market, contributed to this research process.