Why are existing test methods from other industries unsuitable for air barriers?

Existing test methods from other industries are unsuitable for air barriers primarily because they require modifications not needed for air barriers. Air barriers serve specific functions such as controlling air leakage, moisture movement, and thermal resistance, which necessitate testing protocols tailored to these characteristics. In contrast, methods developed for other industries might address different performance criteria, possibly leading to inconsistent results when applied to air barriers.

For instance, the physical properties, operating conditions, and expected performance of air barriers differ significantly from materials tested in other sectors. Hence, using existing methods without adaptation could result in inaccurate assessments of an air barrier’s effectiveness and durability.

The other options highlight advantages that do not align with the primary reason for the inadequacy of existing test methods. While some methods may seem too rigorous or focus on aesthetics, or lack international standards, the core issue lies in the need for specific modifications to effectively evaluate the performance of air barriers.