MBMA recognizes forward-thinking insulation research

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

The association recognized a research proposal examining how air space in metal building insulation cavities affects performance and durability.

The Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA) recognized outstanding technical advancement at the 2025 Annual Meeting with the presentation of the Innovative Project Award. Administered by the MBMA Associates Member Advisory Council and selected by the MBMA board of directors, this annual award supports forward-thinking research that strengthens the performance and understanding of metal building systems. The winning project receives $10,000 in funding to advance the proposed study.  

For 2025, the award was presented to David Tomchak of Bay Insulation Systems for his project titled, "To Fill or Not to Fill: Air Space in Metal Building Cavities Purlins and Girts." His submission addresses an ongoing question within metal building design: does filling or not filling the air space between insulation and metal components influence moisture, behavior, energy, performance and long-term system durability. 

As building codes have become more stringent, liner systems have become common, and insulation systems are required to meet specified thermal values. Yet, depending on the depth of the purlin or girt cavity, some areas meet the required thermal values without being completely filled. This can leave air spaces that may contribute to condensation or reduce expected system performance. David’s proposal outlines a series of studies to determine how the presence or absence of these air spaces affects heat transfer, condensation risk and overall energy efficiency.  

If the study confirms that leaving air space contributes to condensation or performance loss, the findings could guide updates to industry recommendations and installation practices. For MBMA members, the results would help ensure that insulation systems are designed to meet real-world performance expectations and remain compatible with current metal building system configurations.  

The project will be developed through cooperation and knowledge-sharing within MBMA research and technical committees. Required resources include testing facilities, materials and industry expertise from manufacturers and building system engineers.  

Bay Insulation Systems and David were recognized during the Annual Meeting, where the MBMA membership congratulated the winner for advancing research that supports the entire metal building community. The Innovative Project Award continues to encourage new ideas and practical solutions that improve the performance, reliability and understanding of metal building systems across the industry.