Can you use plastic sheeting as a vapor barrier?
In simple terms, a vapor barrier is a material that won’t allow moisture to pass through it, such as plastic sheeting. A very simple experiment to show how a vapor barrier works is to lay a plastic garbage bag down on some damp soil. There are two basic types of vapor barriers used with exterior wall insulation.
What side of a wall needs the vapor barrier?
Vapor barriers are usually best installed on the side of the wall that experiences the hotter temperature and moister conditions: the inner surface in colder climates and the outer surface in hot, humid climates.
Should you put plastic on exterior walls?
In exterior walls that are below-grade, like basement walls, plastic should not be used at all. Some applications require a different use of plastic vapor barriers. Nonpermeable plastic tape, applied to any seams in the barrier, is the standard installation practice.
Is Tyvek house wrap a vapor barrier?
No, DuPont™ Tyvek® is not a vapor barrier. It is made with unique material science to keep air and bulk water out while allowing moisture vapor inside walls to escape.
Does vapor barrier go inside outside?
In warm climates, the barrier should point to the outside of the house, blocking the vapor from the humid outside air that may seep into the walls or ceilings. In cold climates, the opposite is true. The air is usually warmer inside the house, so condensation can build up from air entering the wall from the inside.
How do you secure a vapor barrier to the wall?
Stick the vapor barrier material to the foundation seal tape and then use mechanical fasteners to hold it forever. Drill holes through the plastic and through the seal tape into the block. If you drill through the seal tape you will prevent the plastic from peeling off when you remove the drill.
What is the best vapor barrier for a house?
All areas of your home should have a vapor barrier, just like it should have insulation. If you want to create an air barrier as well, then foam insulation is the best bet. This is because your vapor barrier will stop the moisture from getting into your home but does nothing to stop air.
What is the thickness of a vapor barrier?
Vapor barrier thicknesses range from 6 mil to 20 mil, with 6 mil being the bare minimum and 20 mil being the most heavy duty and puncture-resistant.
What is a vapor barrier in a basement?
A basement vapor or moisture barrier is installed during the new construction of a home or the remodeling of a basement. Polyurethane sheeting is a typical vapor barrier that contractors use to prevent moisture from penetrating the walls of a basement. The material is stapled to the frame of a basement wall before it is finished…
Should I use a vapor barrier in basement?
Building codes usually require a vapor barrier (4 mil plastic sheeting) on exterior basement walls if the framing is attached to masonry or concrete surfaces, or if the wood framing butts up against the outer basement walls. You should then use fiberglass insulation that has a vapor barrier between the studs, with the vapor barrier facing in toward the living space.