What is the difference between cheap and expensive vapor barrier?

During the operation of the building, excess moisture is formed. Trying to break out, it turns into steam, which subsequently settles in the form of condensate on protective structures, and with prolonged subsidence slowly deforms them and reduces the thermal insulation properties constructions. That is why special attention should be paid to the choice of vapor barrier. This will allow the structure to serve for many years and reduce your costs in the future.

In this regard, many builders have a question - which vapor barrier to choose: expensive or cheap. What is the difference between expensive or cheap vapor barrier - let's analyze today.

It cannot be said for sure that the most expensive material is the most reliable and most durable. Of course, you can also choose material from a low price category. Even ordinary plastic wrap can be attributed to this segment. However, it is important to take into account that sometimes the cost of the material depends on the dimensions of the roll (length and width) and molding. Many do not pay attention to this aspect when choosing a film. Buying a film at a cheap cost, people doom themselves to re-purchase a vapor barrier. Therefore, before buying material, multiply the dimensions of the film (width and length) to find out the dimensions, and calculate the cost of one square meter of material. This will determine which material is actually cheaper and which is unreasonably expensive.

Also, when calculating the required volume of vapor barrier for operation in ceilings, I recommend remembering that the material will serve as a kind of blanket for the insulation. That is why the ends of the material must overlap the limits of the mineral wool. Also, during the installation of the vapor barrier, the mineral wool is firmly rolled into the vapor barrier, and then securely and without holes is attached to the logs. Such actions additionally increase material consumption.

The choice of brands of vapor barrier, depending on the cost of the material, is very large. In addition to standard polyethylene films, you can also choose reflective materials. It is much more expensive due to its advantage - it contains a foil layer that allows you to keep warm. Such a film is used in situations where it is not possible to provide sufficient insulation with mineral wool.

Also, when choosing an expensive or cheap film, it is important to pay attention to the service life of the material. The cheap film will break down faster than the set period from exposure to, for example, oxygen. An expensive film can serve you even for several decades.

And of course, when choosing a film, I recommend studying reviews on various resources. Despite the cost of the material, there are some nuances that may "emerge" after several years of film operation.

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