The International Residential Code (IRC) requires either a Class I or II vapor retarder on the interior side of frame walls in climate zones: 5, 6, 7, 8 and marine 4 (see climate zone map).
Should you put plastic behind basement drywall?
If you put a polyethylene vapor barrier behind a drywall-covered stud framed wall, then the answer is that water that condenses on the poly will fall onto the wood sill plate, growing mold and eventually rotting it out. Dedicated vapor barriers have no place in a basement wall.
Does a finished basement need a vapor barrier?
A complete basement waterproofing solution is all about controlling the groundwater under and around your home's foundation. Therefore, a vapor barrier alone is not enough to achieve a dry basement. Vapor barriers are designed to work in conjunction with drain tile systems.Nov 18, 2021
How do you attach a moisture barrier to a basement wall?
- Inspect the walls to be protected. ...
- Run a bead of silicone caulk around any window or door frames and into any gaps in the walls.
- Spread out the vapor barrier onto the walls. ...
- Double up the edges of each sheet so they overlap by at least 4-inches.
How do you hold down a moisture barrier?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=imrHTXtHi0k
How do you attach a vapor barrier to a foundation wall?
Stick the vapor barrier material to the foundation seal tape and then use mechanical fasteners to hold it forever. Drill holes through the plastic and through the seal tape into the block. If you drill through the seal tape you will prevent the plastic from peeling off when you remove the drill.Jan 5, 2016
Where do you put a vapor barrier in a basement wall?
Not to be confused with a vapor barrier—which is placed on the warm side of the wall just in front of the insulation and behind the drywall— a moisture barrier goes against the basement wall and behind the insulation and framing. The best option for insulating a basement is to use spray foam insulation.Mar 31, 2016
Why is there plastic on basement walls?
Polyurethane sheeting is a typical vapor barrier that contractors use to prevent moisture from penetrating the walls of a basement. The material is stapled to the frame of a basement wall before it is finished with plaster or drywall. A vapor barrier is also helpful to keeping a basement insulated and warm.
Do you need a vapor barrier on basement concrete wall?
Before framing the walls of your basement, install a moisture barrier to prevent water and moisture from entering the wall cavity. ... But if you use fiberglass insulation batts, then a moisture barrier will prevent water and moisture from entering your walls and creating mold and mildew.Mar 31, 2016
What is best to put on basement walls?
If installing drywall panels, use moisture- and mildew-resistant drywall. When insulating concrete basement walls (a good idea because concrete basement walls are often cold), use rigid foam board insulation if the insulation will come into direct contact with the concrete wall.Oct 5, 2020
Where should I put the vapor barrier in my basement?
Vapor barriers should be located on the exterior of basement assemblies allowing inward drying to the basement space where moisture can be removed by ventilation or dehumidification.Oct 26, 2006
On which side of insulation must a vapor barrier be installed?
Vapor barriers are sheets of plastic or other material placed on one side of insulation sheets. This barrier is meant to keep moisture from getting to the insulation in the walls and ceilings, and it is required by building codes when insulating most houses. In any case, the vapor barrier must point to the warm side.
Do you need vapor barrier in basement walls?
Be Sure to Use a Moisture Barrier When Building Out Your Basement. ... It provides the best coverage and R-value and and functions as a moisture barrier in and of itself. But if you use fiberglass insulation batts, then a moisture barrier will prevent water and moisture from entering your walls and creating mold and mildew ...Mar 31, 2016