Will a 6-mil Vapor Barrier Protect my Home?

There are many different kinds of vapor barriers on the market right now. While it is true that each thickness of vapor barrier has its own strengths and weaknesses, a 6-mil vapor barrier is not very strong at all. 

6-mil Is the Minimum Recommended 

A vapor barrier that is 6-mil in thickness is the bare minimum when it comes to protecting your crawl space from dampness and other nuisances. Anything thinner than 6-mil would simply not give any lasting or noticeable protection for your property’s crawl space, but a string-reinforced 6-mil barrier will prove slightly more durable. Nonetheless, 6-mil barriers are an economical choice that’s favored when cost is the overriding concern. 

The drawbacks to this are the generally lower levels of durability that these vapor barrier display. A 6-mil vapor barrier is not only more vulnerable to tears and punctures during the installation process. It is likely to be damaged if anyone enters the crawl space to undertake work. This also means that they are less suitable for people that wish to use their crawl space as a storage space. The weight of boxes and consistent movement will be damaging to the liner. 

20-mil Barriers Offer Better Protection 

While 10-mil and 12-mil vapor barriers are an option, for the best results, we suggest that homeowners consider a vapor barrier of 20-mil in thickness. A 20-mil vapor barrier is one of the thickest and toughest available, especially when reinforced and treated with antimicrobial substances. This kind of barrier will offer superior puncture and tear resistance, as well as a longer lifespan in general. This makes it the best possible option for those who want to use their crawl space to store seasonal goods. 

However, it can be more costly outright. We recognize that it may not be ideal for those on a tight budget. However, the slightly higher upfront cost is deceptive in the case of vapor barriers. The actual cost of protecting your home is lower overall when you invest in good quality products.