What Is DELTA®-FASSADE SA?

DELTA®-FASSADE SA is a three-layer, self-adhered water-resistive and air barrier membrane manufactured by Dörken Systems Inc. Its two outer layers are made of high-strength spun-bonded polypropylene (PP) fabric, thermally bonded to a highly vapor-permeable, watertight polymeric middle layer. The membrane has a full-surface coating of high-tack adhesive for bonding to common substrates and a split-release liner for ease of application.

It is designed specifically for façade systems with open-joint cladding — systems where gaps between cladding panels permanently expose the barrier membrane to direct sunlight, wind, and rain.

What it is:

• A self-adhered air and water-resistive barrier (WRB)
  
  
• A UV-stable membrane rated for permanent exposure in open-joint systems
  
  
• A vapor-permeable membrane that allows moisture within the wall cavity to escape
  
  

What it is not:

• A drainage mat
  
  
• A vapor barrier
  
  
• A standard house wrap designed for covered cladding applications

Why Open-Joint Cladding Demands a Specialized WRB

Standard house wraps are designed to be hidden behind closed cladding — wood siding, fiber cement, stucco — where they receive minimal UV exposure. Most conventional WRBs are not designed for permanent UV exposure and may degrade if used outside their intended application.

Open-joint and rainscreen cladding systems are fundamentally different. Metal panels, fiber cement boards, wood slats, and architectural cladding systems are installed with deliberate gaps that permanently expose the WRB to direct sunlight, wind-driven rain, and extreme temperature cycles.

A WRB that is not specifically engineered for this exposure will not perform reliably over the life of the building. The wall system behind it becomes vulnerable, and a degraded membrane visible through open joints undermines both the building's performance and its appearance.

DELTA®-FASSADE SA was developed to address this specific requirement. Its UV-stable acrylic coating is tested to withstand long-term exposure. Its self-adhered construction eliminates mechanical fastener penetrations that would otherwise create potential entry points for air and water. And its matte black finish maintains its appearance without yellowing or discoloration under UV exposure.

Key Performance Benefits

UV Stability for Permanent Exposure

DELTA®-FASSADE SA is highly stabilized against damage from UV exposure and is designed for use in cladding systems with open joints up to 2" (50 mm) wide that expose up to 50% of the entire façade surface. The maximum UV exposure prior to cladding installation is 30 weeks.

No Mechanical Fasteners Required

The full-surface pressure-sensitive adhesive creates a continuous bond to the substrate without staples, cap nails, or screws. This eliminates mechanical penetrations through the membrane and supports a more continuous air barrier.

Eliminates Lateral Water Movement

Because the membrane is fully adhered to the substrate, there is no gap behind it for water to travel laterally. Water is directed down and out of the assembly as intended.

High Vapor Permeability

With a vapor permeance of 30 perms (ASTM E96, Proc. A) and 50 perms (ASTM E96, Proc. B), DELTA®-FASSADE SA allows moisture vapor within the wall cavity to escape to the exterior. This helps prevent condensation buildup and supports a healthy, durable wall assembly.

Air Barrier Performance

With air permeance of less than 0.02 l/(s·m²) at 75 Pa (ASTM E2178), DELTA®-FASSADE SA meets the requirements of a continuous air barrier when properly installed with compatible accessories.

Fire Performance

Flame spread of 10 and smoke developed of 95 per ASTM E84 — rated NFPA Class A and IBC Class A.

Lightweight and Tear-Resistant

At approximately 44 lb per roll, the membrane is manageable on the jobsite and engineered to withstand the handling demands of construction.

Service Life

When installed behind open-joint cladding systems with joints up to 2" wide exposing no more than 50% of the façade surface, the service life expectancy is greater than 25 years.

DELTA®-FASSADE SA vs. DELTA®-FASSADE S: Which One Do You Need?

Both products are UV-stable WRBs engineered for open-joint cladding. The primary differences are the fastening method and the maximum exposed façade area each is designed to accommodate.

Feature	DELTA®-FASSADE SA	DELTA®-FASSADE S
Fastening method	Fully self-adhered	Mechanically fastened
Max open joint width	2" (50 mm)	2" (50 mm)
Max exposed façade area	50%	40%
Air barrier function	Yes — fully adhered, no fastener penetrations	Yes — with proper tape and sealing
Release liner	Split-release for controlled application	Not applicable
Code compliance	IRC; IBC Type V-B	IRC; IBC (broader occupancy types)

Choose DELTA®-FASSADE SA when:

• Your façade design exposes more than 40% of the surface area through open joints
  
  
• The project requires a continuous air barrier without mechanical fastener penetrations
  
  
• Self-adhered application is preferred for speed and continuity of installation
  
  

Choose DELTA®-FASSADE S when:

• Mechanical fastening is required or preferred by the design authority
  
  
• The project falls under IBC occupancy types beyond Type V-B
  
  
• The open joint area is 40% or less of the total façade surface

Where DELTA®-FASSADE SA Is Used: Real Application Scenarios

Ventilated rainscreen systems with metal panel cladding
Metal panels installed with open joints are one of the most common applications. The membrane sits directly behind the panels and is exposed to UV through the gaps. UV stability and continuous air barrier performance are both critical in this system type.

Fiber cement open-joint cladding
Fiber cement boards installed with deliberate spacing for drainage, ventilation, and aesthetics. The matte black membrane creates a clean visual backdrop behind the joints.

Architectural wood slat façades
Wide spacing between wood slats exposes significant portions of the WRB to view and to UV. DELTA®-FASSADE SA maintains its appearance and performance permanently behind this cladding type.

Commercial Type V-B construction
Open-joint architectural cladding on buildings under 40 feet without plastic foam insulation, where a single membrane serves as both the air barrier and WRB.

High-performance residential with rainscreen siding
Projects targeting net-zero or Passive House energy standards where airtightness and LEED compliance are requirements. DELTA®-FASSADE SA supports LEED for New Construction, Core and Shell, Existing Buildings, and Homes.

Common Specification Mistakes to Avoid

Using a standard house wrap behind open-joint cladding

Most conventional WRBs are not rated for permanent UV exposure. Using them in open-joint systems where the membrane is directly exposed to sunlight puts the entire wall assembly at risk. Always specify a WRB that is explicitly engineered and tested for this application.

Assuming all black WRBs are UV-stable for open-joint use

Black color alone does not indicate UV stability for permanent exposure. Confirm that the product carries manufacturer documentation and testing specifically for open-joint cladding applications.

Choosing self-adhered vs. mechanically fastened without evaluating project requirements

The choice between DELTA®-FASSADE SA (self-adhered) and DELTA®-FASSADE S (mechanically fastened) should be based on the project's exposed façade area percentage, air barrier continuity requirements, and applicable building code occupancy type — not installation preference alone.

Using incompatible sealants and flashings

Sealants or liquid flashings containing surfactants, asphaltic materials, or acid-based silicones can compromise the water-hold-out properties of the PP spunbond membrane. Always verify compatibility with Dörken's technical documentation before selecting accessories from other manufacturers.

Skipping primer on masonry, concrete, or cold-weather installs

On standard wood sheathing above 40°F, primer is not always required. However, on concrete, masonry, or in cold weather conditions, DELTA®-HF PRIMER or DELTA®-ADHESIVE (cold weather) is required to ensure proper adhesion. An adhesion test is recommended to confirm substrate suitability before installation.

Exceeding the maximum UV exposure window

DELTA®-FASSADE SA should be covered as soon as possible after installation. The maximum UV exposure period prior to cladding installation is 30 weeks. Coordinate cladding installation schedules accordingly.

Where to Buy DELTA®-FASSADE SA

Spycor Building Products carries DELTA®-FASSADE SA in stock and ready to ship nationwide.

Order DELTA®-FASSADE SA at Spycor Building Products

For specification assistance, installation questions, or project-specific guidance, contact the Spycor Building Products team directly at (843) 517-8180.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DELTA®-FASSADE SA?

DELTA®-FASSADE SA is a self-adhered air and water-resistive barrier (WRB) manufactured by Dörken Systems Inc. It is designed specifically for open-joint and ventilated rainscreen façade systems where the membrane is permanently exposed to UV radiation through gaps in the cladding.

Is DELTA®-FASSADE SA a drainage mat?

No. DELTA®-FASSADE SA is a self-adhered WRB and air barrier membrane. It is not a drainage product. If drainage is required in your wall assembly, a separate drainage layer is needed.

What is the maximum open joint width DELTA®-FASSADE SA can accommodate?

DELTA®-FASSADE SA is rated for open joints up to 2" (50 mm) wide, exposing up to 50% of the entire façade surface.

What is the difference between DELTA®-FASSADE SA and DELTA®-FASSADE S?

DELTA®-FASSADE SA is self-adhered and rated for façades with up to 50% open area. DELTA®-FASSADE S is mechanically fastened and rated for up to 40% open area. Both are UV-stable WRBs for open-joint cladding systems. The right choice depends on the exposed area percentage, air barrier requirements, and IBC occupancy type of the project.

Does DELTA®-FASSADE SA function as an air barrier?

Yes. When properly installed with compatible Dörken accessories, DELTA®-FASSADE SA meets the requirements of a continuous air barrier with an air permeance of less than 0.02 l/(s·m²) at 75 Pa per ASTM E2178.

Does DELTA®-FASSADE SA require a separate air barrier?

No. The fully adhered membrane functions as both the WRB and the air barrier in a single product when installed per Dörken's installation instructions.

What is the minimum installation temperature?

DELTA®-FASSADE SA must be installed at 40°F (5°C) and above. In cold weather, store rolls in a warm area before use. Use DELTA®-ADHESIVE for cold weather applications.

How long can DELTA®-FASSADE SA be left exposed before cladding is installed?

The maximum UV exposure period prior to cladding installation is 30 weeks. Cover as soon as possible.

Does DELTA®-FASSADE SA support LEED certification?

Yes. DELTA®-FASSADE SA supports sustainable and energy-efficient building practices, including efforts toward LEED certification for New Construction, Core and Shell, Existing Buildings, and Homes.

Can DELTA®-FASSADE SA be used on commercial buildings?

Yes. It is approved for Type V-B construction under the International Building Code (IBC) for buildings under 40 feet with no plastic foam insulation, and for buildings under the International Residential Code (IRC).