Should I use vapor barrier in my basement?

Should I use vapor barrier in my basement?

Steve Bliss, of BuildingAdvisor.com, writes: The short answer is: Don’t use a vapor barrier in a finished basement. This is asking for trouble, especially with a full bathroom, which generates a lot of humid air. Rigid foam board on the interior, like you have, is the ideal insulation.

Where do you put the vapor barrier in a basement?

Building experts recommend installing vapor barrier in a basement against the foundation walls before placing studs and insulation.

1. Pull the barrier tightly across, and cover large surfaces as flatly as possible.
2. Make sure not to tear or cut the material.

Do I need a moisture barrier behind drywall in basement?

Before framing the walls of your basement, install a moisture barrier to prevent water and moisture from entering the wall cavity.

Should you put plastic on basement walls?

Should I use Visqueen or plastic sheeting on the framed basement walls? No, you should not, as plastic will prevent moisture from moving through the wall and will lead to mold and damage.

What is the difference between a vapor barrier and a moisture barrier?

Moisture barriers function to help in preventing water from entering inside of the wall cavity. On the other hand, vapor barriers basically prevent water vapor from the interior of the house to filter through the wall and condense on the warm side of the insulation.

Can you put a vapor barrier over concrete?

Subfloor Material Therefore, because concrete is porous, it’s a good idea to install a vapor barrier over your concrete subfloor before installing your flooring. This way you can stop the vapor drive of water upward to your floors, protecting them from any damage (source).

Should I Drylock my basement walls?

Of course, the reason you need to seal any basement foundation is because the foundation is porous. Moisture can come through the concrete, stone or block and cause a lot of problems under the house so sealing it is an integral part of the process in making sure your basement is clean and dry.

Should I insulate concrete basement walls?

Walls. Basement walls should be insulated with non-water sensitive insulation that prevents interior air from contacting cold basement surfaces—the concrete structural elements and the rim joist framing.