Conservation & Heritage Issue 50 Winter 2025/Spring 2026 - Flipbook - Page 28
What is AirDrain?
of older buildings by adopting an holistic, pragmatic
and fabric first approach comes from years of surveying
experience incorporating thermography, and managing the
balance between preservation and performance. This has led
to the success of AirDrain - where surveying expertise meets
everyday simplicity and long-term protection.
AirDrain is specially engineered. The passive ventilation
and moisture management ‘C’ section chamber is installed
in the ground, around the periphery of a building and back
filled with pea shingle. It creates an air channel around the
building’s perimeter, allowing moisture against the wall
to escape through evaporation, whilst reducing thermal
bridging and additionally allowing ground gases to dissipate
through the principles of diffusion. Unlike traditional damp
treatments that focus on surface remedial treatment and
physical intervention, which can cause damage internally
and externally, AirDrain tackles the root cause. The result is
drier walls, less condensation, improved thermal efficiency,
and a significant reduction in the risk of mould and structural
decay, without spoiling the character of the home. AirDrain
installations have led to an average of 20% reduction in
damp readings within the first 6 weeks, post installation.
Moisture levels continue to reduce steadily in future years.
AirDrain follows the core principle of BS 6576:2005 by
addressing dampness at its source, by reducing moisture
saturating walls from the ground, before any invasive
interventions are considered. Focusing on the preservation
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Designed for listed properties
Because listed buildings are often restricted in terms of
alterations, the AirDrain was designed to accommodate
irregular walls, existing service pipes, and high ground levels,
while blending aesthetically with the surroundings. To date
no conservation officers have rejected the installation of
AirDrain.
A healthier home, a smarter future
Beyond structural longevity, indoor comfort is improved and
continues to mitigate damp induced health issues caused by
mould and damp such as asthma, allergies, and respiratory
discomfort. By reducing cold bridging and moisture, your
home will stay warmer for longer, because drier walls are
warmer walls, consequently reducing heating
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