Comparing Vapor Barrier Materials: What Thickness Should You Use?
A vapor barrier is a sturdy, vapor-resistant material secured to the bare earth exposed to the crawl space. Vapor barriers seal off the crawl space, preventing vapor, moisture, flooding, pests, and more from getting inside. However, not all vapor barrier sizes are created equal, as some thinner barriers are better for a temporary fix, while thicker vapor barriers offer long-term protection. If you need a vapor barrier installed in your crawl space in the Northern Virginia areas of Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax, or Fredericksburg, contact the experts at Summit Waterproofing Solutions today at 703-291-1516!
What Is A Vapor Barrier and Why Does Thickness Matter?
A vapor barrier is a polyethylene sheet installed over the dirt floor of a crawl space to prevent moisture from the soil from evaporating into the crawl space. Vapor barriers are often secured to the walls and joists to form a complete seal over the dirt inside your crawl space. Vapor barriers control the amount of moisture getting inside the crawl space, which can prevent mold, mildew, and dry rot from damaging the wood in your home. Additionally, with no mold spores circulating around, vapor barriers can create a healthier environment in your home. The reduced moisture and sealed protection of vapor barriers can also ward off termites, silverfish, and other crawl space pests.
A thicker vapor barrier is more durable and resistant to punctures, offering better performance and a longer lifespan.
Common Vapor Barrier Thickness Options
- 6-Mil: vapor barriers this thin are inexpensive and used in light-duty or temporary setups. These are NOT recommended for long-term protection or crawl spaces with heavy traffic, as they are more vulnerable.
- 10-Mil: Moderate thickness with better durability, these are suitable for dry, less-used crawl spaces with minimal intrusion.
- 12-Mil: more resistant to tears and better for active crawl spaces with occasional foot traffic.
- 20-Mil (Reinforced): Heavy-duty, puncture resistant, and often reinforced with polyester cord or mesh, these are ideal for high-traffic areas and long-term solutions.
Factors That Influence Thickness Choice
- Crawl space use: if you are planning to use your crawl space for storage, you might want to go thicker.
- Soil moisture levels: if you live at the bottom of a hill or in an area that frequently has higher levels of moisture, thicker would be better. However, in a drier area, thinner might be more worth the money.
- Budget considerations: the best vapor barrier for you aligns at the intersection of both your budget and your home’s needs.
- Presence of pests or existing damage: if you already have a pest problem, a thinner vapor barrier likely won’t cut it.
- Home resale value and code compliance: make sure your new vapor barrier aligns with building codes and can provide the best resale value if you plan on selling your house.
Get The Right Barrier, Installed the Right Way
If you still aren’t sure what thickness of vapor barrier is right for you, that’s okay! Summit Waterproofing can help! Our experts can carefully inspect your crawl space and talk with you to determine what thickness of vapor barrier best fits with your needs and budget. Then, our team can install your vapor barrier, ensuring peace of mind, reduced maintenance, and long-term savings. Our crawl space encapsulation services can also integrate sump pumps, drainage matting, insulation, and dehumidifiers. The thickness of your vapor barrier matters, but ensuring its installed properly matters even more. Call the experts at Summit Waterproofing today to get started with a FREE estimate at 703-291-1516!
