A recognized necessity today is the use of vapor barrier materials. Membranes are considered the most popular and common, due to their ability to effectively protect structures for various purposes from the harmful effects of moisture and wind. With their help, you can easily create a comfortable indoor climate for humans. Most often, the vapor barrier membrane is a nonwoven material that is made of low pressure polyethylene. It is the production technology that provides unsurpassed quality.
In the manufacturing process, ultrafast formation of fibers is used, which are interconnected under the influence of an impressive temperature. Thanks to this technique, the material obtains excellent protective properties, is vapor-tight and durable, which allows the use of paintings for roofing, creating a protective coating during construction delays, as well as the formation of the outer parts of frame-type houses. In order to achieve the optimum effect, the material is used in combination with fibrous thermal insulation and a waterproofing membrane. This enhances the effect.
Characteristics of the membrane on the example of the film "Tyvek"
The vapor barrier membrane mentioned above is capable of maintaining the required level of vapor barrier, while maintaining the necessary vapor barrier. It does not imply the presence of a ventilation gap during installation, which is very convenient, because the masters manage to simplify the installation of the material. Among his main abilities, an increase in the life of wood structures can be distinguished. The membrane performs its functions for 50 years with proper installation. These figures were obtained during testing, in practice they may turn out to be slightly different.
For reference
If the vapor barrier will be used for protruding structures, skylights, attic ventilation or chimneys, it is recommended to use the laid material in tandem with self-adhesive tapes made on a butyl or acrylic basis.
Positive features
If we use the material described in the article for vapor barrier of frame houses, this will allow us to get rid of the greenhouse effect inside the attic rooms and on the attic floors, which were built using classic polyethylene insulation. With the help of membranes, it is possible to increase the energy efficiency of buildings, as well as extend their life.
The material is characterized by unique characteristics, among them one can single out the ability to undergo the influence of a water column of 1.5 meters. Consumers choose this material also for the reason that it is not toxic and does not pose a risk to human health.
Additional reasons for choosing a moisture and steam protection material
Modern hydro-vapor barrier membranes have many positive features. They are available in large rolls that are convenient to install. Due to its impressive size, installation time takes very little. You can not be afraid to bend the material, as the canvas does not tear, because they have high tensile strength. Cut them easily, it can be done even at height. In this case, you do not need to use an additional tool.
When heated, there is no discharge. If we compare with other traditional materials, then the latter are able to emit benzene oil. This indicates that the vapor barrier membrane for the roof will not emit odors during operation. It is chemically and biologically inert, resistant to microorganisms and bacteria. In the production of stabilizers are used that protect the material from exposure to ultraviolet radiation. This can also be said about negative temperatures, which are not able to adversely affect the membrane.
Specialist advice
When a vapor barrier membrane is chosen by consumers, the most significant fact for them is that it is expressed in the exposure of the material to fire. This indicates that laying in the immediate vicinity of flame sources is strictly prohibited.
Application features
The vapor barrier of the ceiling with a membrane can be carried out in several stages, at the first you need to roll the roll along or across the rafters. Using brackets, they are fastened to them in increments of 30 to 50 centimeters. After that, you can proceed with the installation of the counter-lattice, which will ensure that the gap between the insulation layer and the finishing material is maintained. Those places where overlap was formed should be glued with an insulating tape on an acrylic or butyl base. The same treatment is used when the canvas is torn.
Installation work is carried out in such a way that the material is turned with inscriptions inward. Cold rooms of the upper floors with winter heating do not require vapor barrier, in such buildings it should be equipped under the ceiling of the upper floor.
Features of vapor barrier film on the example of Utafol products
Vapor barrier films and membranes are presented today in the wide range of building materials market. As the first, you can select “Utafol”. This material has three layers, the base is located in the center, it is represented by a reinforcing mesh. On the other hand, it is processed by a film. This allows you to achieve strength, but the vapor tightness is ensured by lamination. Having visited the store, you can choose a certain type of material that has the corresponding marking. For example, the letters "AL" indicate that aluminum is applied to the surface, which performs a reflective function. If you use such a membrane, then the heat will be given to the house.
Classification of vapor barrier films
If you are interested in vapor barrier film, then you can consider its varieties, each of which is designed to solve certain problems. Using the example of the aforementioned manufacturer, it is worth highlighting H 96 Silver, which is used for even and inclined roof structures, and is installed from the inside. This material can be used as a vapor barrier membrane for walls. It effectively protects against wind and condensation. Another variety - Jutafol H 90, can be used to insulate walls and create a vapor-proof barrier when installing a roof.
Characteristics of a vapor barrier membrane for flooring on the example of "Isospan B"
The vapor barrier membrane for the floor performs the same functions as the material with the corresponding characteristics for the roof. Cloths are laid indoors, on the inside of the insulation. "Isospan B" has a two-layer structure, on the one hand it is smooth, while on the other it is roughened to retain condensate vapor. The formed overlap must be glued with tape during installation. For flooring and protection of the insulation from moisture, you can use "Isospan C", which is used as a waterproofing layer for the installation of cement screeds.
Conclusion
Before starting construction, you must have purchased a vapor barrier membrane. Without its use, condensate rising up from the inside will be absorbed by the insulation. Excessive humidity will cause a decrease in the thermal characteristics of the material, freezing of the roof system and the formation of ice on the coating.