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Vapor Barriers vs Air Barriers
Confusion on the issue of vapor barriers and air barriers is common. The confusion arises because air often holds a great deal of moisture in the vapor form. When this air moves from location to location due to an air pressure differences, the vapor moves with it. This is a type of migration of water vapor. In the strictest sense air barriers are also vapor barriers when they control the transport of moisture-laden air.
An excellent discussion about the differences between vapor barriers and air barriers can be found in Quirrouette (1985).
So what is The Problem?
Incorrect use of vapor barriers is leading to an increase in moisture related problems. Vapor barriers were originally intended to prevent assemblies from getting wet. However, they often prevent assemblies from drying. Vapor barriers installed on the interior of assemblies prevent assemblies from drying inward. This can be a problem in any air-conditioned enclosure. This can be a problem in any below grade space. This can be a problem when there is also a vapor barrier on the exterior.
This can be a problem where brick is installed over building paper and vapor permeable sheathing.
An excellent discussion about the differences between vapor barriers and air barriers can be found in Quirrouette (1985).
So what is The Problem?
Incorrect use of vapor barriers is leading to an increase in moisture related problems. Vapor barriers were originally intended to prevent assemblies from getting wet. However, they often prevent assemblies from drying. Vapor barriers installed on the interior of assemblies prevent assemblies from drying inward. This can be a problem in any air-conditioned enclosure. This can be a problem in any below grade space. This can be a problem when there is also a vapor barrier on the exterior.
This can be a problem where brick is installed over building paper and vapor permeable sheathing.
Extracted from: buildingscience.com
