Vapor Barrier

2/5/2013 at 2:09:36 PM

You must apply acoustic caulking all the way around the outside top, bottom, sides any window openings as well as where ever the poly laps in the middle of the wall. On all joints Tuc tape needs to be applied.

2/5/2013 at 2:52:12 PM

Deb,

I see Gord answered the basic question.

The main reason is to seal the entire area as best you can so that no air flows between the inside and outside.

When I did my house, I went overboard and put the caulking on every stud. I also caulked the area where two (or more) studs were together so that the chance of leakage between the wood pieces would be minimal. If you have the caulking, use it. No harm in overkill.

As to tuck tape, tape every seam ... top and sides, ... again ... to make one solid sealed unit. Vapour barries should be 6ML plastic. If there are holes is is when it is installed, cover the holes with tuck tape.

Have fun.

Mark

2/6/2013 at 6:34:57 AM

Both are great answers Debora.

You want zero air movement through your wall. Any warm air reaching the cold foundation wall or exterior plywood has the chance to condense and cause moisture

Here is a link to best practices for insulating

http://www.mah.gov.on.ca/Asset8275.aspx?method=1

Now this is for Ontario just make sure you follow your provinces code as a minimum

Thanks,

Dave

2/6/2013 at 4:20:55 PM

All answers above are correct. In the Ontario building code, it requires that air barrier / vapour barrier is either sealed (taping the seams, usually with tuck tape) or you can lap your seams a minimum of 100mm (4").