How Do Vapor Barriers Work?
Pacific Northwest residents are faced with the particular challenge of defending against moisture. This is especially true for homeowners. Water vapor creeping into crawlspaces can be a problem because it leads to mold growth and breakdown of the foundation. Crawlspace encapsulation uses sheets of special plastic to seal the subfloor and air vents so water vapor and other gases cannot penetrate. Northwest Weatherization knows that vapor barriers are the first line of defense against flooding, mold growth, and dangerous gases like radon.
We know how to keep the spaces under your house dry.
We Offer Proactive Solutions for Your Home.
The point at which a leak is discovered often means structural damage has already occurred. Damage can be extensive and costly, which is why we encourage our customers to be proactive in their weatherization tactics. Installing a vapor barrier protects your home from moisture entering from the soil. Depending on the size of your crawlspace and position of your home we may advise using 6, 8 or ever 12-millimeter vapor barriers. The material is durable and particularly ideal for underground storage areas.
Water vapor barriers protect your home against:
- Mold, moisture, and contaminant buildup under your home. Vapor barriers keep dangerous substances out of your crawlspace. Seepage and flooding can wash in things like sewage which can cause health problems. Additionally, it blocks moisture and water, helping to protect your foundation and prevent mold growth.
- Mold and odors. Mold requires warmth and moisture in order to thrive. It often starts in the basement and travels into walls and flooring. Restoration after mold establishes itself can be costly. Our barriers stop mold before it starts.
- Cracked or burst pipes. Freezing temperatures can lead to burst pipes. Insulating your crawlspace raises the temperature of the area and regulates basement and crawlspace temperatures. This helps pipes stay warm and functional.
- Heating and cooling efficiency-loss Moisture has a cooling effect which can lead to furnaces doing extra work. The effect can be an increase in your electrical bill and a reduction in your furnace’s lifespan. Our technicians are experts in saving you money by installing moisture barriers that work best for your home.
Crawlspace encapsulation protects your health.
Radon was carried to the Pacific Northwest by granite rocks during a period of flooding thousands of years ago. Though it is naturally occurring and found everywhere in the world, radon has been of particular concern in this area because of its high levels of detection and strong links to lung cancer. The soil composition in some areas is heavier in these elements than others, which is why it’s important to have your home’s radon levels tested. Since radon is odorless it requires special testing. Crawlspace encapsulation uses our thickest 12 mil vapor barriers and special plastic tape in order to seal off your sub floor and vents. This method keeps you safe and healthy by preventing harmful gases like radon from entering your home.
Contact us is easy!
Don’t hesitate in protecting your home and health. We make it easy to solve insulation problems common in the Northwest. You can trust us to provide dependable local service and affordable prices. Contact us today.
We also offer Vapor Barrier Services in:
Lake Oswego; Beaverton; Vancouver WA; Portland OR; Hillsboro