Novia® 500 Gauge FR Virgin Polythene - 1.5m x 50m

• CE marked to BS EN 13984
• EN 13501-1 Fire Classification B-s1,d0*
• Low cost fire rated solution for both standard and high rise and high risk constructions
• 75m² supplied single wound in 1.5m x 50m rolls
• Milky white, translucent material allows for ease of installation to framework
• Minimises interstitial condensation and improves insulation performance
• Minimises air leakage and energy heat losses
• Helps towards BS 5250 requirements

Novia® 500 Gauge FR Virgin Polythene is best suited for use as a high-performance vapour control layer or protective sheet in construction applications where fire-retardant properties are required. Its thick, 500-gauge virgin polythene construction provides excellent durability, moisture resistance, and tear strength, making it ideal for use under floors, behind walls, or beneath insulated roofing systems to prevent moisture ingress. The FR (fire-retardant) formulation adds an extra level of safety, making it suitable for projects where fire performance is a consideration. Novia 500 Gauge FR Virgin Polythene is a reliable solution for both temporary site protection and permanent moisture control in residential and commercial builds.

What is it used for — typical applications?

• Internal vapour control layer (AVCL) in timber‑frame walls, SFS light‑steel frame walls, or insulated masonry / timber frame constructions
• As an air‑tightness barrier in insulated pitched roofs, ceilings and insulated floor assemblies / floors with insulation.
• Anywhere you need to limit moisture vapour movement from the warm side to the cold side — e.g. to reduce condensation risk, improve energy efficiency, and maintain insulation performance.

It is often used in combination with appropriate external membranes (e.g. breather membranes) to provide a full moisture‑control strategy

What are its limitations / when is it not suitable?

• Because it’s relatively thin (125 µm), it should be used in constructions with a low to moderate risk of interstitial condensation; for high moisture risk situations, a heavier-duty AVCL (e.g. thicker VCL or specialist vapour check) might be advised
• Performance depends on correct installation — laps and joints must be sealed properly using appropriate tapes, otherwise air leakage or vapour bypass can occur.
• It is not a structural element, and should be protected from physical damage (tearing, punctures) during construction.
• Not suitable where a fire‑rated or more robust AVCL is required (e.g. some multi‑storey or high‑risk buildings) — for those, Novia and other manufacturers offer heavier duty or fire‑rated membranes.

What is Novia 500 Gauge FR Virgin Polythene?

• Novia 500 Gauge FR Virgin Polythene is a virgin-grade, single-ply blown polythene vapour control layer / air‑leakage barrier (AVCL / VCL). 
• It’s designed to act as an internal barrier on the warm side of insulation in walls, floors or roofs — to control the movement of water vapour and prevent air leakage that can undermine thermal performance