
Vapour barriers are an essential part of the insulation story. Insulation in a wall, ceiling or floor must be protected by a vapour barrier applied to the warm (heated) side of the insulation. Without it, moisture from the house air will enter the insulation, condense and cause serious damage.
Some insulation is sold with an attached vapour barrier. Others require a separate application. Here are some common vapour barrier materials:
Polyethylene film
Aluminum foil
Aluminum paint
Varnish and rubber base paints
Urethanes