Introduction to the issue
I’m sure you’ve had the experience of living in a family home and noticing a damaged, torn diffusion film on a walkway in an uninhabitable area. 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 are implementing 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 space. Damage to the diffusion film can lead to a number of problems, so this problem should not be underestimated.
Gallery
Take a look at the pictures of completed buildings in our area for inspiration and to avoid incorrect applications when installing diffusion foil.
What are the causes?
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 diffusion foil 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 insurance hydro-insulation is unwrapped, its half-life begins. It should be built in 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 this film 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.
Using a chainsaw
The risk of fouling the flume is the use of chainsaws. These stains on the foil should be avoided. One option is to use a hook cutter, which will not leave stains on the diffusion foil. The solution is to use a hook cutter. This is the only way to eliminate the risk of damaging the vapour barrier.
We know different models of hook cutters:
You can of course find the product in our online shop.
