125mu (500G) Green Vapour Barrier 4m x 50m (200m2/Roll)

What is 125mu (500G) Green Vapour Barrier 4m x 50m? 

125mu (500G) Green Vapour Barrier (4m x 50m) is a highly effective vapour barrier designed to control moisture and enhance the thermal performance of building structures. Constructed from durable polyethylene (PE) or similar polymer materials, this vapour barrier serves as an essential component in preventing the infiltration of water vapour into the building envelope, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the structure and its associated materials. 

Its primary function is to mitigate the risks associated with interstitial condensation, mould, damp, and the degradation of insulation materials, all of which can compromise the energy efficiency and overall durability of a building.

Where Should a Vapour Barrier Be Placed? 

The placement of a vapour barrier within a building is critical to its effectiveness. Unlike a breathable membrane (which tends to be fixed on the cold side of insulation), a vapour barrier is positioned on the warm side of the insulation, which is generally the interior side of walls, floors, and ceilings. 

This strategic positioning prevents warm, moisture-laden air from coming into direct contact with cooler surfaces, where it could condense, potentially causing damage to building materials and compromising thermal performance.

Essentially, vapour barriers act as a physical barrier, restricting the movement of water vapour into the colder parts of the building fabric. This helps reduce the likelihood of condensation within the structure, which could otherwise lead to rot, mould growth, and other forms of material degradation.

125mu (500G) Green Vapour Barrier Benefits  

• Prevention of Interstitial Condensation: The barrier effectively limits the passage of warm, moist air into the building fabric, thereby mitigating the formation of condensation within the structure. This is particularly important in maintaining the integrity of the insulation material and the overall building structure.
• Moisture Control: By restricting the movement of water vapour, the vapour barrier prevents the buildup of excess moisture in the building, which could otherwise lead to issues such as mould growth, damp staining, and degradation of building materials.
• Enhanced Energy Efficiency: As a key component in reducing heat loss and improving thermal performance, the vapour barrier helps maintain the effectiveness of insulation materials, ensuring that the building remains energy-efficient and cost-effective in both warm and cold climates.
  
  

125mu (500G) Green Vapour Barrier Specifications 

• Vapour resistance of 266 MNs/g
• 500gauge/125Mu 
  
  

Is a Vapour Barrier Really Necessary? 

A vapour barrier is a critical component in maintaining a building's structural integrity and energy efficiency. Water vapour is an inherent byproduct of human activities such as cooking, bathing, and even breathing. 

If left unchecked, this moisture can migrate through the building envelope, leading to interstitial condensation within walls, roofs, and floors. This form of condensation can significantly degrade the performance of insulation, reducing its ability to resist heat loss and thereby impacting the overall thermal performance of the building. 

Moreover, excess moisture in the structure increases the risk of mould and damp issues, which can lead to poor indoor air quality and potential health concerns for occupants.

Vapour Barriers Vs Vapour Control Layers 

Vapour control layers are designed to 'control' and slow moisture penetration, as opposed to blocking it completely. A vapour control layer (otherwise known as a vapour retarder) is airtight in its design and because of this is typically employed in areas where airtightness is a concern, with some common forms incorporating a self-adhesive design. When utilised in a roof space, VCL is usually employed alongside a breather membrane to stimulate air flow. 

Vapour barriers, on the other hand, serve as an 'air barrier' that fully obstructs the movement of vapour and air. The most common form of vapour barriers are polythene sheets or foil-backed insulation with taped joints.