It is recommended that you go with the thicker option if you have a rocky crawlspace in which you will be storing things and walking around. The thing to keep in mind when working on a crawl space is that you don't want to make any mistakes at all. You absolutely do not want to go back to the awful musty odor that pervaded your home before the crawl space liner and vapor barrier were installed after the work has been completed and you find yourself sitting in your home. This is the kind of job that you want to complete only once, regardless of whether you do it yourself or hire someone else to do it. Choose the crawl space liner that is both the strongest and the most tear-resistant option available to you so that you can get a good night's sleep.
What kinds of materials are typically employed in the construction of crawl space vapor barriers?
The typical thickness of a vapor barrier used in homes is six mils of polyethylene, which provides the homeowner with some savings in the short term. However, it is possible that those cost savings will be lost in the long run if the polyethylene film is walked or crawled on, as this can cause microscopic holes in the vapor barrier. As soon as there are any holes in the vapor barrier, regardless of how small they are, the vapor barrier will no longer function as intended.
What should be placed beneath the vapor barrier in the crawl space?
In order to prevent moisture from accumulating in the area beneath the house, we insulate it with foil-faced rigid insulation. Any moisture issues that you currently have in the crawlspace, such as water droplets collecting on the concrete walls and pipes, will be resolved once you install the insulation and the plastic.
Is there a specific type of plastic that should be used as a vapor barrier?
Plastic, more specifically polyethylene plastic with a thickness of 6 mil, is the type of vapor barrier that sees the most widespread application. Plastic has a very low permeability rating, which means that water cannot pass through it in either its gaseous or liquid state.
Should I tack down the vapor barrier?
Pull and smooth the vapor barrier to ensure that it has a completely smooth surface that is free of wrinkles or gaps through which air and moisture could potentially escape, thereby defeating the purpose of the vapor barrier. A horizontal board that runs under the studs at the bottom should be stapled through the plastic and into the sole plate.
Does tar paper work as a vapor barrier?
Tar paper has proven to be an effective vapor barrier material, but the conditions of your home and the local climate will determine whether or not other materials will perform even better. Vapor barriers are made of a material that is impermeable to water vapor but has some level of permeability, allowing air to pass through but preventing water from entering the home.
