Membrane vapor barrier: properties and application features

Today, the recognized need is the use of vapor barrier materials. The most demanded and widespread are the membranes, which is due to their ability to effectively protect structures of different purposes from the harmful effects of moisture and wind. With their help you can easily create a comfortable indoor climate for a person. Most often the vapor barrier membrane is a non-woven material that is made of low pressure polyethylene. It is the production technology that provides unsurpassed qualities.

In the manufacturing process, ultra-high-speed fiber formation is used, which are interconnected under the influence of an impressive temperature. Thanks to this technique, the material has excellent protective properties, is characterized by vapor tightness and strength, which makes it possible to use linens for roofing, to create a protective coating in case of construction delay, and also to form exterior parts of houses of frame type. In order to achieve the optimum effect, the material is used in combination with fibrous thermal insulation and waterproofing membrane. This enhances the effect.

The characteristics of the membrane on the example of the film "Tyvek"

The aforementioned vapor barrier membrane is capable of maintaining the required level of vapor barrier, while maintaining the necessary vapor tightness. It does not assume that the installation has an air gap, which is very convenient, because the masters manage to simplify the installation of the material. Among its main abilities can be allocated an increase in the life of structures of wood. The membrane performs its functions for 50 years with proper packing. These figures were obtained during the tests, in practice they may turn out to be slightly different.

For reference

If the vapor barrier membrane is to be used for protruding structures, dormer windows, attic ventilation or chimneys, the material to be laid should be used in tandem with self-adhesive tapes made on a butyl or acrylic base.

Positive features

If we use the material described in the article for the 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 classical polyethylene insulation. With the help of membranes it is possible to increase the energy efficiency of buildings, as well as to extend the period of their operation.

The material has unique characteristics, among them the ability to undergo the action of a water column of 1.5 meters can be distinguished. Users choose this material also for the reason that it is not toxic and does not pose a threat to human health.

Additional reasons for choosing moisture and steam protection material

Modern hydro-vapor barrier membranes are distinguished by many positive features. They are available in the form of large-width rolls, which are convenient to install. Thanks to its impressive size, it takes very little time to install. You can not be afraid to bend the material, as the canvas will not tear, because they have high tensile strength. Cut them easily, you can do it even at altitude. It does not need to use an additional tool.

When heated, there are no secretions. If you compare with other traditional materials, the latter are able to produce benzene oil. This indicates that the vapor barrier membrane for the roof will not emit an odor during operation. It is chemically and biologically inert, resistant to the effects of microorganisms and bacteria. The production uses stabilizers, which protect the material from the effects of ultraviolet radiation. This can be said about negative temperatures, which can not negatively affect the membrane.

Advice of a specialist

When consumers choose a vapor barrier membrane, the most significant for them is the fact that is expressed in the material's exposure to fire. This indicates that the installation in the immediate vicinity of the sources of the flame is strictly prohibited.

Application Features

Steam insulation of the ceiling with the help of the membrane can be carried out in several stages, the first one should roll the roll along or across the rafters. To them with the help of staples is made fastening with a step from 30 to 50 centimeters. After that, you can start assembling the counter-grate, which will ensure compliance with the gap between the insulation layer and the finishing material. Those places where the overlap is formed, should be glued with an insulating tape on an acrylic or butyl base. The same treatment is also used when the blade breaks.

Installation work is carried out in such a way that the material is faced with inscriptions inside. Cold rooms of the upper floors with winter heating do not require vapor barrier, in such buildings it should be arranged under the ceiling of the upper floor.

Features of the vapor barrier film on the example of products "Yutafol"

Steam insulation films and membranes are presented today in the market of building materials in a wide range. As the first can be identified "Yutafol". This material has three layers, the center is the base, it is represented by a reinforcing mesh. On the other hand, it is treated with a film. This allows you to achieve strength, but vapor tightness is provided by lamination. When you visit the store, you can choose a certain type of material that has the appropriate 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, 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 manufacturer mentioned above, it is worthwhile to highlight H 96 Silver, which is used for flat and inclined roofing structures, but is installed from the inside. This material can be used as a vapor barrier membrane for walls. It effectively protects against wind penetration and condensation. Another variety - Jutafol H 90, can be used for warming walls and creating a vapor barrier for roofing.

Characteristics of the vapor barrier membrane for floor arrangement in the example "Izospan V"

The vapor barrier membrane for the floor performs the same functions as the material with the corresponding characteristics for the roof. Cloths are laid inside the premises, on the inside of the insulation. "Isospan B" has a two-layer structure, on the one hand it is smooth, while on the other hand it is roughened to retain evaporation of the condensate. The formed overlap must be glued with tape during installation. For floor overlappings and protection of the heater against humidity, "Izospan C" can be used, which is used as a waterproofing layer for the installation of cement screeds.

Conclusion

Before the start of construction, you must purchase a vapor barrier membrane. Without its use, the condensate, rising up from the inside, will be absorbed by the heater. Excess humidity will cause a decrease in the thermal characteristics of the material, the freezing of the roofing system and the formation of ice on the coating.