Mold is a symptom of excess moisture.
Interior coverings for walls allow water vapor to move through them. The water vapor then condenses when it comes in contact with the colder air outside. Vapor barriers work to resist this movement and thus prevent condensation. This is particularly important in mobile homes, which tend to have less insulation. Does this Spark an idea?
Moisture Problems
Moisture problems in mobile homes include mold and mildew, soft wallboards, buckled floors, damaged wood molding and trim. In addition, high moisture generally leads to high air conditioning bills as mobile home owners turn on the air conditioning in an attempt to regain comfort.
Vapor Barrier Types
Vapor barriers should have a permeability value of 1.0 or less. Common vapor barriers that meet this requirement include polyethylene film (four to six mil.), asphalt-coated papers, laminated papers, and kraft-backed aluminum foil. Vapor barriers that have a perm value of higher than 1.0 are commonly called breathers.
Installing Vapor Barriers
Vapor barriers should always be applied on the warm side of the mobile home walls. In addition, vapor barriers can be installed underneath the mobile home. Doing so will help prevent ground moisture from rising up through the mobile home.
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