Diy Basement Floor Moisture Barrier

Learn what a vapor barrier is and discover whether it is really necessary in a basement or if it is just an added seal with no use.

Diy basement floor moisture barrier. The grids create an air space below the floor that dissipates moisture and keeps your basement flooring warmer than if it s in direct contact with concrete. Step 1 picking a vapor barrier. Because excessive dampness in a crawlspace or basement can condense you can install a vapor barrier to protect floor framing from becoming damp and covered with fungus efflorescence and rot. While plain plastic sheeting is commonly used to make vapor barriers these traditional poly barriers will allow water and vapor to pass.

For a dry mold free finished basement floor always install a vapor barrier before laying a wood subfloor or carpet pad. A vapor barrier can also increase your home s energy efficiency. The product works through densification to reduce the movement of water through pores. Here s an overview of the vapor barrier along with its benefits and drawbacks including important facts that you should know about it as it pertains to basements.

Any kind of persistent moisture will allow mold to get a foothold and soon ruin carpet or wood flooring. By working below the surface it doesn t change the look of your basement but keeps it in good shape. The system is made of interlocking plastic tiles that are elevated on grids. With a little effort you can install this helpful device yourself.

A vapor barrier is also helpful to keeping a basement insulated and warm. The material is stapled to the frame of a basement wall before it is finished with plaster or drywall. Polyurethane sheeting is a typical vapor barrier that contractors use to prevent moisture from penetrating the walls of a basement. Another way is to raise the floor with a waterproof subfloor.

Be sure to use adhesive formulated for use with foam about 3 per tube when insulating basement walls. A vapor barrier consists of one or more layers of sheet plastic 6 mil visqueen on top of the soil in the crawlspace or basement. Topped by decorative vinyl squares or carpeting these tiles feature molded plastic bases that enable the concrete slab to. The foam greatly reduces heat transfer through the masonry and framing and it eliminates the need for a plastic moisture barrier later.

See what goes into waterproofing a basement too.