Vapor Barrier vs. Crawl Space Encapsulation: What's the Difference?

Maryland1

3 days ago

2 min read

If you've started researching solutions for a damp crawl space, you've probably seen two terms repeatedly:

Vapor barrier and crawl space encapsulation.

They're sometimes used interchangeably, but they aren't exactly the same thing.

So which one does your home need?

What Is a Crawl Space Vapor Barrier?

A vapor barrier is a durable polyethylene material installed over the exposed soil or floor of a crawl space.

Its primary purpose is to help reduce ground moisture from evaporating into the crawl space.

Master Kleen offers different vapor barrier options, including 6-mil, 12-mil and 20-mil materials, depending on the application.

A vapor barrier can be an important part of crawl space moisture control, but it doesn't necessarily mean the entire crawl space has been encapsulated.

What Is Crawl Space Encapsulation?

Encapsulation takes moisture control further.

Instead of covering only the ground, an encapsulation system is designed to more completely isolate the crawl space from ground moisture and humid outside air.

Depending on the home, an encapsulation project may include:

Heavy-duty vapor barrier
Sealed seams
Material extended and secured along walls
Sealed crawl space vents
Wrapped piers
Sealed penetrations
Dehumidification
Drainage improvements
Sump pump systems
Insulation improvements

The exact system should depend on the conditions underneath your home.

Does Every Crawl Space Need Full Encapsulation?

Not necessarily.

Some crawl spaces may need a straightforward vapor barrier replacement. Others have ongoing humidity, condensation, mold, groundwater, or drainage issues that require a more comprehensive approach.

That's why we don't believe in recommending the exact same package for every house.

We start by determining where the moisture is coming from.

What About a Dehumidifier?

A professional crawl space dehumidifier can be an important component of a sealed crawl space.

But installing a dehumidifier without addressing significant ground moisture, standing water, or outside air infiltration may not solve the entire problem.

Moisture control works best as a system.