Many builders, renovators, and homeowners use the terms air barrier and vapour barrier interchangeably, but they perform very different jobs, even when the same material can be one or both. Learn how each system controls air movement and moisture, why confusing them can lead to condensation and durability problems, and how understanding the difference leads to better building envelope decisions.
QUICK PRIMER: Air Barrier v. Vapour Barrier
Shawna HendersonJanuary 05, 2015
An air barrier stops air from moving in or out of the conditioned space, effectively blocking the air pressure differences that drive the stack and wind effects. Air barriers can be in place anywhere in the building envelope, and there can be more than one air barrier. Air barriers can...