The Need for Insulation Vapor Retarders

Condensation

Condensation occurs when warmer moist air comes in contact with cold surfaces. These surfaces can be solid framework type materials or "pocket" areas of cold air. Warm air has the ability to hold more moisture than cold air, but this property disappears when contact is made with cold regions. When this occurs that moisture is released in the form of condensation. This moisture can then result in loss of insulation performance.

Condensation Control

The area that vapor retarders deal with relates to concealed condensation which occurs when moisture migrates up through the ceiling or walls into your insulation system. This can be a very difficult problem to deal with but can be the cause of major damage and energy inefficiency.

In order to control concealed condensation, it is necessary to combine the use of vapor retarders with proper building ventilation.

Vapor Retarders

Insulation facings are a vital part of the total insulation system. They provide a decorative value to the project while at the same time perform important performance standards such as moisture migration control, light reflectivity, and added structural strength.

The main function of this product is to act as a vapor retarder. While no product can totally eliminate this flow of moisture, these products do an excellent job of minimizing the flow rate and volume. The result is the prevention of accumulated moisture within the insulation blanket and building structure. This in turn results in energy efficiency over the life of the building and reduced rusting of metal structures.