I’m sure you’ve had the experience of living in a family home and noticing a damaged, torn vapor barrier in the non-residential section. You are immediately annoyed, because the roof was repaired five years ago and there is already such damage. There are a number of causes that are not thought of when you implement a roof, and it doesn’t just apply to those who have an uninhabitable attic space, but also to those who have a habitable attic. Damage to the vapour barrier can lead to a number of problems, so this issue should not be underestimated.
Several causes can be responsible for the damage to the vapor barrier:
- unglued foil joints
- mechanical damage to the foil
- chainsaw oil stains
- contact of dipped wood with foil (separate chapter)
- long-term exposure to UV radiation in the attic space
- UV radiation from the exterior – before covered with roof covering
Of the points mentioned, the last two are the most important. UV radiation damages the vapour barrier as it is designed in such a way that it is expected to be embedded in the roof sheathing and not exposed to UV radiation. Once the vapour barrier is unrolled its half-life begins. It needs to be built up and covered as soon as possible. One thing is from the exterior and the most important thing is from the interior. If you don’t have a habitable attic it is essential that you protect the vapor barrier from UV rays. Enclose it in a formwork made with OSB boards or in some other way. One thing is very important. It must not be exposed to daylight. This damages it in such a way that it weakens the structure of the foil.
The solution is to use a hook cutter. This is the only way to eliminate the risk of damaging the vapour barrier.
You can of course find the product in our online shop.
