How to Encapsulate Crawl Space the VaporBright System
Here’s the step-by-step installation guide to encapsulating and waterproofing a crawl space with the VaporBright and BaseShield.
- Begin by measuring the wall height and add 12 inches. This will be the length of the VaporBright liner to cut from the roll. The VaporBright liner comes in a 12 foot wide roll folded in half. We recommend working in 12-foot wide sections across the crawlspace to avoid waste during installation.
- Apply double sided VaporBright butyl tape at the top of the wall to adhere the VaporBright liner leaving the protective wrap in place.
- Drill holes through the butyl tape into the concrete at 3-foot centers for placement of the fasteners.
- Remove the protective wrap from butyl tape and apply the VaporBright liner over top of the butyl tape. VaporBright liner will cover the wall and extend 12 inches across the floor.
- Next, install the VaporBright nylon expansion fasteners into the pre-drilled holes to secure the VaporBright liner.
- Apply the white pressure sensitive VaporBright tape along the seams between liners to secure together and create a finished gas-tight seal.
- Once the walls are fully covered, you can install the BaseShield Dimple Drainage mat dimples side down over the gravel and dirt floor.
- The matting provides a durable subfloor beneath the VaporBright liner and aids in drainage.
- Next install the VaporBright liner across the crawlspace floor. Measure the length needed. Apply double sided butyl tape 12 inches above the floor. Aligned with top edge of VaporBright liner and secure to butyl tape.
- Apply the white pressure sensitive VaporBright tape along the seams between liners to secure together and create a finished gas-tight seal.
- The result is a bright white, fully encapsulated and waterproofed crawlspace.
VaporBright Crawl Space Can Handle Any Job
- Multiple layers and cord reinforcement resist punctures and tears (available in 12-MIL and 20-MIL thickness)
- UV stabilization protects the material from degradation during extended exposure to sunlight.
- Cold-crack resistance eliminates failures in extremely cold temperatures.
- Low permeability greatly inhibits moisture transmission.
- Flexibility and light weight allow for easy handling and quick installation.
- Class C, ASTM E-1745-11 Standard Specification for water vapor retarders used in contact with soil or granular fill under concrete slabs.
Our NEW VaporBright is a commercial-grade crawlspace vapor barrier used in basement waterproofing and crawlspace encapsulation. VaporBright mil thickness is 12-mil thickness on the film and 14-mil thickness on the scrim. VaporBright’s multi ply nylon weave and polymer laminate design will prevent any odors and gases from entering the home. Dirt and mud are common in most homes and present unique problems to homeowners. Soil inside the home can produce humidity, odors, and radon gases. Damp, humid crawlspaces are a breading ground for mold and mildew, which can spread quickly throughout a home. Dirt crawlspaces present a great problem to homeowners. They give rodents and insects an easy entrance into the upper levels of a home. Structural damage to the floorboards, walls, ceilings, and carpet can be caused as a result of the dampness and humidity of an open crawlspace. VaporBright provides the answer to all these problems instantly! Our professional grade vapor barrier is an outstanding product to offer to your clients, because of its rugged durability, long-lasting protection, and clean, finished look. This white-on-white design will expand the size of the crawlspace and give your customers a flawless, bright finish.
One third to one half of all structures have damp conditions that may encourage development of pollutants such as molds and bacteria, which can cause allergic reactions — including asthma — and spread infectious diseases. – Environmental Protection Agency
