Vapor Barrier

Vapor barriers are plastic liners that are placed over the dirt floor of crawl spaces to keep odors from accumulating. In order to prevent moisture and vapors from the earth from entering the crawl space, a vapor barrier is installed. This plastic comes to an end at the columns and walls of your crawl area.

Is it necessary to install a vapor barrier in a crawl space?

Yes. In order to keep moisture out of your crawl space, you must install a vapor barrier. Furthermore, a moisture barrier is the bare minimum of protection that you should have installed in your crawl space to prevent mold growth. A vapor barrier can save you money on costly repairs in the future.

When and where should a vapor barrier be placed?

In most cases, vapor barriers should be constructed on the side of the wall that is exposed to the highest temperatures and most moisture: the inner surface in colder climates and the outer surface in hot and humid climates, respectively. If you're painting an existing area, oil-based paints or vapor-barrier latex paints are both good options for creating an effective moisture barrier.

When should I put down a vapor barrier on my floor and why?

When a floor is exposed to moisture, it is recommended that vapor barriers be installed. When moisture penetrates your flooring, it can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, as well as the possibility of water damage. A moisture barrier is a barrier that serves to prevent the movement of water vapor, so protecting your floors.

How often should a vapor barrier be replaced?

When it comes to vapor barriers, the average lifespan is only 5-10 years before they begin to break down and decay. In the event that you do not want to crawl around beneath your house, you can easily hire a contractor to do the job for you.

Is it possible for a vapor barrier to reduce humidity?

Although it may seem insignificant, a high-quality vapor barrier can really protect your property from harm and, in the long run, can even make your home more energy efficient by reducing overall humidity.