Prevent Costly Damage: Trust Attic Pros To Install Your Crawl Space Vapor Barrier In Milpitas Today!

Vapor Barriers Are Not Necessary For All Climates

One misconception is that vapor barriers are not mandatory in all regions and climates. This is untrue. No matter where you live, vapor barriers are necessary to prevent moisture from penetrating the crawl space and damaging the lower parts of your home. Moisture coming from the ground can infiltrate your crawl space and cause structural damage, including rot, mold, and a musty odor.

Any Plastic Sheeting Will Do

Another misconception is that any plastic sheeting will work as a vapor barrier. While any plastic sheeting is better than no vapor barrier at all, not all plastic sheeting is created equal. Your crawl space vapor barrier should be made of high-quality materials that will not easily tear or puncture. The best vapor barriers will be made from materials like cross-laminated high-density polyethylene, which can stand up to harsh conditions and remain intact for decades.

Vapor Barriers Can Be Installed Over Insulation

Incorrect! A common mistake that homeowners make is installing vapor barriers over insulation. This can lead to serious problems like trapping moisture inside the insulation, ultimately causing mold growth and reducing insulation effectiveness. Instead, the vapor barrier should be placed between the insulation and the subfloor.

Vapor Barriers Only Prevent Moisture

While it’s true that a vapor barrier’s primary function is to prevent moisture penetration, it can also act as an additional layer of insulation. In crawl spaces, the temperature is typically lower than that of the home’s living space. A well-installed vapor barrier can help keep the temperature in your home more consistent, reducing heating and cooling costs.