How To Install A Vapor Barrier

A vapor barrier can protect the frame of your home from water damage. The barrier is designed to block vapor from building up and provides an outlet for the water. A vapor barrier can also increase your home's energy efficiency. With a little effort, you can install this helpful device yourself.

Picking a Vapor Barrier

While plain plastic sheeting is commonly used to make vapor barriers, these traditional poly barriers will allow water and vapor to pass through them.

If you want a barrier that is a high quality and will actually protect your home's frame from rot and mold, you need to invest in a barrier with new technology. You can generally find great vapor barriers at any store that sells concrete supplies.

Where to Use Vapor Barriers

There are many places in your home that a vapor barrier could be beneficial. Under the foundation is the most important place. If your home has already been built, there isn’t anything you can do to upgrade this. However, if you are having your home built, have your contractor show you the barrier they plan on using.

Attics and crawlspaces are also prime candidates for vapor barriers. Humidity is more apt to build up in the walls of these areas and cause mildew, mold and rot. Not only can this cause a health problem for those with sensitivities, it can cause severe damage to the structure of your home.

If you have a wine cellar, add a vapor barrier here, too. Too much humidity in a wine cellar can damage the corks and ruin the wine.

Installation Instructions

1. If there is already water built up on the surface, clean this before you start the installation process. The wall you are installing the vapor barrier on should be clean and dry. You can use caulk to fill in any gaps around windows or in the wall.
2. Measure the wall and write down the measurement. Add two inches to the measurement to allow you enough of the barrier to stop water from getting in as it rolls down towards the flooring. All joints should have a double layer of barrier for a total thickness of about 4 inches.
3. Roll out the barrier onto the wall where you’ve marked the measurements. Use your staple gun to attach the barrier. Don’t be afraid to over-staple.
4. Use your tape to seal the seams of the vapor barrier. Make sure you are using tape that is specially designed for this purpose. Using other kinds of tape will compromise the waterproof seal and might make the barrier useless.
5. Make sure you finish the wall within a month of installing the barrier. This will prevent damage to the surface and protect the vapor barrier.