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Vapor Barrier/RetarderVapor retarder (commonly known as Vapor Barrier), is commonly used to keep moisture out of a defined area space or material. The 2006 International Building Code defines Vapor Retarder as follows:

VAPOR RETARDER. A vapor-resistant material, membrane or covering such as foil, plastic sheeting or insulation facing having a permeance rating of 1 perm (5.7 ´ 10-11 kg/Pa × s × m2) or less, when tested in accordance with the dessicant method using Procedure A of ASTM E 96. Vapor retarders limit the amount of moisture vapor that passes through a material or wall assembly

Vapor barrier is commonly used in the basement on the outside of the wall to keep the ground moisture out of the wall materials. If the wall is existing, and earth is against the outside of the wall, it is not uncommon to apply a retarder to the inside of the wall prior to adding insulation or finish materials.

In cold areas vapor barrier is applied to the wall on the WARM SIDE IN WINTER over the insulation to keep moisture from getting to the insulation and condensing as the air gets colder on the outside of the wall. The building codes actually require this application in most areas.

Hope this helps!

Terry

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Q: What is vapor sealing a basement?
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