Tips on how to install a vapor barrier
Water barriers are an extremely important part of home waterproofing. They will keep moisture out of your home, thus improving your home’s energy efficiency. Here are some tips on how you can install one in your home.
Some of the tools and materials that you will need are:
- Seam Tape
- Vapor Barrier Roll
- Caulk
- Staples
- Staple Gun
Choosing a vapor barrier
It really depends on the budget you have for the project. You can buy a cheaper vapor barrier, that it’s made from plain plastic, or you can choose a high quality barrier that will not let water pass through it and will also protect your home from mold and mildew growth.
Place to use a vapor barrier
The best place to install the vapor barrier is under the foundation. But this can be done only when the house is built, or after, but with great costs.
Other places where a vapor barrier can be installed is in attics and crawlspaces. Humidity can built up easily in these places and they are a great home for mold and mildew.
Installation
- Before installing the vapor barrier, you should clean the surface and most of all dry it. This will help the vapor barrier adhere to the different surfaces.
- The next things that you need to do is make the necessary measurements. Add two inches to your measurements to make sure that the vapor barrier will be larger than the surface.
- Roll the vapor barrier on the surface of the walls or floor and use a staple gun to fix it.
- To seal the overlaying sheets of vapor barrier use only special tape.