We’d first like to give a shoutout to Mykhaylo Panchishak @Winnidesigns for the fantastic post spotlighting Halo® Interra. Building on that, our technical team wants to highlight a key North American building code requirement that often flies under the radar: ceiling assemblies must include an air control layer. The good news? Halo Interra can fulfill that role—when installed correctly.
And that brings us to an important learning moment: while Interra is best known for its insulation performance, it can also double as an air control layer when properly sealed. In today’s push for better, tighter, more energy-efficient homes, every component in your wall or ceiling assembly needs to carry its weight—and Interra is more capable than you might think.
When sealed at the joints, Interra doesn’t just insulate—it becomes a vital part of your continuous air barrier system, performing as the air control layer that helps maintain performance and code compliance.
Installation That Makes the Difference
To unlock Interra’s air control capabilities, it’s critical to seal it correctly:
- Before applying strapping or gypsum board, seal all joints with tape or caulking.
- Then seal Interra to adjacent air control layers i.e. air control layer from the ceiling to the above grade wall assembly. This would be done be connecting Interra to the air control layer in the above grade wall assembly which could be an interior membrane or an exterior air barrier system. If an exterior air barrier system is utilized seal Interra to the top plate of above-grade wall assembly This allows the air barrier system to be transferred from the interior to the exterior air barrier system.
Continuity is key! Air control must be a continuous seal around the entire building enclosure. Any gaps in the air barrier system and if a pressure difference occurs from the interior to exterior environment air leakage will occur. When air leakage occurs, it costs more to keep the building cool or heat, occupant comfort is negatively affected, and durability could decline as the leaking or infiltrating air could deposit moisture in the building enclosures assemblies.
Penetrations matter, too. Mechanical vents, pot lights, and any other penetration through Interra should be sealed back to the front face with either tape or caulking. Continuity is key—every joint, every hole, every detail must be sealed
Why Air Barriers Matter More Than You Think
The importance of a continuous air control layer goes far beyond code compliance:
- Reduces energy consumption: Less uncontrolled airflow means better thermal regulation—and lower utility bills.
- Downsizes mechanical systems: With less heating and cooling loss, you don’t need oversized HVAC.
- Improves durability: By limiting interior or exterior air (and its moisture) from moving through an assembly, you dramatically reduce the condensation risk.
- Boosts comfort: Say goodbye to drafts and hello to a quieter, more acoustically insulated interior.
Wrapping It Up
Interra isn’t just insulation. With proper sealing, it becomes an essential component in your air control strategy—helping you build better, smarter, and tighter. Don’t miss this opportunity to level up your wall or ceiling system’s performance.
Got questions about installation? We’re here to help. Let’s keep the conversation (and the air) contained.
