When a new home or building has challenges with maintaining air quality and temperature control, it is likely that the issue lies in the way the structure was insulated when it was built. The crawl space underneath a building plays a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable and structurally sound environment. Installing a vapor barrier for crawl space encapsulation can alleviate the adverse events associated with airflow.
The team at Americover is composed of experts with decades of experience in helping builders with crawl space encapsulation for residential and commercial buildings. Our work with plastic sheeting prioritizes the safety and comfort of those inside the building, meaning that you can protect both air quality and structural integrity through a simple encapsulation project.
Read more about the negative consequences that may occur without the right vapor barrier.
The Consequences of Not Installing a Vapor Barrier for Crawl Space Encapsulation
If there are challenges with airflow and temperature inside a home or building, even though the air and heating systems are fully functional, it is likely due to the stack effect. This natural phenomenon occurs when warm air rises within a structure, creating a pressure difference that draws air in from the lower levels. In homes without proper crawl space insulation, this means that moist, unconditioned air from the ground can infiltrate your living space, bringing with it a host of problems.
Installing a vapor barrier in the crawl space can mitigate many of the negative effects caused by the stack effect, including:
Compromised Air Quality
Without the proper vapor barrier to control contamination in place, the stack effect brings outside air in from the ground, which is likely to be contaminated with harmful gasses, mold, mildew and fungi. These harmful microorganisms can lead to respiratory issues and allergies for those inside the building, which can be exacerbated in those with health conditions.
Structural Damage
Air which enters a structure from the ground can be prone to excessive moisture due to groundwater issues. Without a vapor barrier to shield against moisture, your home’s foundation and wooden structures can suffer from mold and rot, which can shorten the life of your building or lead to expensive repairs.
Reduced Energy Efficiency
In structures without proper crawl space insulation, the stack effect causes conditioned air to escape, leading to higher energy bills. One of the best ways to ensure that your building remains energy efficient is to ventilate the building at the top, where conditioned air escapes, and to install a vapor barrier in the crawl space below, to prevent outside air from seeping in.
Choosing the Right Vapor Barrier
Installing the right vapor barrier in your crawl space means that you can effectively enhance the building’s energy efficiency, lowering utility bills. A vapor barrier prevents moisture from infiltrating your crawl space and protects your structure from moisture, mold, and gasses, improving the air quality.
“A vapor barrier is an investment in the efficiency, comfort, and longevity of your home. I think of a crawl space vapor barrier as a gesture of care, not only for the structure itself, but toward the people who will occupy the space inside.”
— Daniel Mergens, Customer Success Manager, Americover
To help you make an informed decision, consult with one of our experts, who can help you choose from Americover’s Crawl Space Vapor Barrier products.
Trusted by Builders and Growers
By installing a suitable vapor barrier, you can protect your building from the negative consequences of the stack effect. Don’t wait; take action now to safeguard against these issues. Americover is the smart source for plastic and polyethylene sheeting. Trusted by contractors and distributors across the construction and agriculture industries, our American-made products combine reliability with quality and innovation.
As an Americover customer, you will receive the personalized support of a dedicated account manager to simplify the ordering process and ensure the best solution for each of your projects. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions and fulfill orders Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Call us at 760-388-6294 or contact us by filling out this form to speak with a representative.