Why We Insulate with CertainTeed MemBrain
Most people think about insulation in terms of R-value — how well it resists heat transfer. That matters. But there's another factor that's equally important and far less discussed: moisture management. In a mixed climate like Wisconsin's, where homes heat in winter and cool in summer, getting moisture management wrong can cause serious long-term damage.
At Eiger Homes, we use CertainTeed MemBrain as part of our wall assembly. Here's why it matters.
The Problem with Traditional Vapor Barriers
Traditional polyethylene vapor retarders — the standard 6-mil plastic sheeting many builders use — work well in purely cold climates. But in mixed climates, they create a problem: during humid summer months, they can trap moisture inside the wall cavity. That trapped moisture creates conditions for mold growth, structural damage, and costly remediation. It's a risk that's entirely avoidable with the right product.
How MemBrain Works
CertainTeed MemBrain is a smart vapor retarder — meaning its permeability changes in response to humidity levels. In winter, when indoor air is dry, it acts as a vapor barrier, preventing moisture from migrating into the wall. In summer, when humidity is higher, it opens up and allows moisture to escape, preventing the buildup that causes mold and rot.
The result is a wall assembly that actively manages moisture year-round — not just in one season.
Why It Matters for Wisconsin Homes
Wisconsin's climate demands materials that perform across a wide range of conditions. A wall assembly that protects against winter cold but traps summer moisture is only doing half its job. MemBrain handles both — quietly, passively, and without any maintenance required.
The Result
CertainTeed MemBrain is one of those behind-the-wall decisions that homeowners never see but benefit from every day. It's part of how we build homes that stay healthy, comfortable, and structurally sound for decades.
That's #BuiltBetter.
About Eiger Homes
Eiger Homes is a custom home builder serving Sheboygan and Ozaukee Counties and Wisconsin's Lake Michigan corridor. We build heirloom-quality homes and remodels for families who care about how they live. #BuiltBetter
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