Crawl Space Vapor Barrier Installation

A vapor barrier is basically thick plastic sheeting (at least 6 millimeters thick) applied to the walls, floor, and sometimes ceiling of your home’s crawl space. In some areas of the country with higher levels of ground moisture, an even thicker vapor barrier might be necessary.

Vapor barriers block excess moisture and humidity from entering your home through the crawl space. And while you may think you can make this your next DIY home improvement project, installing a vapor barrier with not only the correct materials but also the right method is crucial for its effectiveness.

Homes built on a crawl space or basement foundation often have high levels of moisture or water vapor. High humidity in your crawl space or basement can contribute to a number of problems that threaten the safety and stability of your home, including dry rot, water damage, rusted metal, termites and other pests, mold, and more.

That’s why Crawlspace Medic offers a variety of services that eliminate excess moisture from your crawl space or basement so that you can catch these serious (and expensive) issues before they begin.

With your home’s foundation safe and secure, you can feel confident that your home and your investment are protected.

Should you install a vapor barrier in your crawl space?

The answer depends a lot on various factors, including…

• Your climate (including colder climates)
• Your home’s cladding type (stucco, brick, wood, vinyl siding, etc.)
• If you’re adding any new walls, such as an addition or renovation

Depending on where you live, a vapor barrier may even be required to meet building code requirements. If you’re not sure about the building codes or climate requirements for vapor barriers in your region, Crawlspace Medic will help you determine the needs of your home.

When should you replace your vapor barrier? Vapor barriers typically last for 20 years if not damaged by outside forces.

You’ll know it’s time to replace your crawl space vapor barrier when…

• You have a water problem in your crawl space
• You have an infestation of rodents or other animals that may damage the vapor barrier
• Your vapor barrier is damaged beyond repair or is no longer up to code (especially in older homes)

Leaving moisture in your basement or crawl space can lead to problems like mold, insulation deterioration, wood-eating pests like termites, dry rot, and structural damage. Encapsulating your crawl space with a properly installed vapor barrier will go a long way in protecting your home.