As A homeowner, it is important to ensure that you take the steps necessary to protect your home. One of the most productive measures you may take include ensuring the installation of a protective vapor barrier. This is a type of barrier that is designed to keep the home dry, prevent the growth of both mold and mildew, and block the flow of moisture within the home.
This will result in the building materials of the structure being protected from all of the exterior elements and will aid in the optimization of energy efficiency as well as the formation of interior condensation that is known to form om the walls and on the ceilings of the interior of the home. Continue reading to learn more about vapor barriers for the home.
How Does a Vapor Barrier Work?
Most of us do not give much thought to the air that we breathe in and out. As a homeowner, though, it is imperative to pay special attention to the air that flows in and out of the home. The vapor barrier is a special type of product that is designed to reduce the amount of moisture damage that occurs with a home. These products are effective in the management of humidity that comes from the exterior and the interior of the home. The materials that are used to create these products have varying degrees of permeability. In most instances, the materials used are aluminum sheeting and plastic sheeting.
What Ways Do Vapor Barriers Protect the Home?
There are many unique ways that vapor barriers protect the home. We have outlined these methods below with a brief explanation of each:
- Pipe Protection – A vapor barrier is considered absolutely essential for protecting both water pipes and gas pipes from experiencing various types of damage. If not protected, these may develop a leak that could prove quite expensive to repair. Moisture is also known to damage the coating that is typically placed on pipes. Having a vapor barrier results in the prevention of costly water damage and will help in increasing the longevity of your pipes.
- Prevention of Odors and Mold Growth – If there are high moisture levels throughout the home, the perfect environment is created that supports the growth of mold and awful odors. A vapor system will help in ensuring the environment is dry and – as a result – it will prevent odors from occurring throughout your home and bad odors from developing.
- Temperature Consistency – Vapor barriers aid in combatting moisture and humidity levels. When these are controlled, there is a higher level of consistency of the interior temperature of your home. This will help you save money on your utility costs all year long.
- Prevents Pest Infestations – Pests often seek out homes that contain moisture as they thrive in these environments, but a vapor moisture will create a drier environment that will prevent pest infestations. This means the interior of the home will be pest-free and that it will be healthier for both you and your pets.
- Lowers Energy Costs – One of the most important benefits of vapor barriers are the fact that they aid in reducing the energy costs of your home.
Conclusion
There are many aspects of a home that will aid in helping the thermal barrier that you put into place. Examples include your insulation, energy barriers, your roof, the home’s gutter system, the siding, the soffit and fascia, and more! For assistance with weatherizing and protecting your home, contact us here at Southern Industries Home Improvements today by calling: (833) 240-4900