Vapor Barriers Vapor Barrier Attic

Attic insulation should always be installed with the paper backing facing toward the living space the ceiling in this case.

Vapor barriers vapor barrier attic.

Continue reading below our video of the day. Because it s nearly impossible to seal penetrations in the ceiling the reality is water vapor will get into the attic. The goal of vapor barrier strategies is to prevent moisture from collecting and corrupting building materials. Lucy no you don t need a vapor barrier.

A plastic vapor barrier is best installed in a vented attic within climates with over 8 000 heating degree days. Attic vapor barrier detail for cold climates even though we apply vapor barriers to exterior insulated walls in cold climates it s no longer recommended for ceilings floor of the attic. Improperly installed a vapor barrier may actually trap moisture inside a wall while a wall that is more porous can breathe effectively and be less susceptible to long term moisture problems. Adding a second vapor barrier could cause condensation to become trapped in the insulation between the two vapor barriers.

Begin the process of fitting a vapor barrier for attic insulation by preparing the space for the job. If there is limited lighting find a way to provide more so you can see what you re doing. This acts as a barrier to keep heated moist air from rising up into the attic during cold weather. What you need is an air barrier that is at every step of the way you have to pay attention to airtightness.

The basics of air sealing are covered in this article. Climates vapor barriers or more accurately vapor diffusion retarders should be part of a moisture control strategy for a home. If your climate does not meet these conditions a vapor retarder like latex ceiling paint will work well for your house if you are in all other climates except the hot dry and hot humid.