Attic Insulation Vapour Barrier

This barrier is meant to keep moisture from getting to the insulation in the walls and ceilings and it is required by building codes when insulating most houses.

Attic insulation vapour barrier. It is a known fact that moisture in the air can trigger certain disorders and aggravate particular medical conditions such as hay fever asthma etc. Attic insulation should always be installed with the paper backing facing toward the living space the ceiling in this case. The insulation fiberglass or cellulose is then placed on top of the drywall with no vapor barrier above or below. This acts as a barrier to keep heated moist air from rising up into the attic during cold weather.

However all attics vented or unvented and in all climates should have an air barrier such as an airtight drywall ceiling. A vapor barrier basically helps to prevent moisture from entering your home through the ceiling floor or the walls. In hot dry climates your attic can be vented though like in hot humid climates you should not install any vapor retarder or barrier. Most forms of attic insulation benefit from the addition of a vapor barrier to protect them from the harmful effects of moisture which can reduce their effectiveness over time.

In any case the vapor barrier must point to the warm side. The following are a few simple steps to help you undertake the task properly so your vapor barrier retains heat without damaging the insulation.