Hello Matt:

In the last couple of years, we have seen a lot of goofy installations that are the work of “certified mould inspectors” who recommend a wide variety of “fixes” that don’t actually fix anything, and indeed, may create a moisture problem – many times, the fix involves the installation of a VB. (Although I shouldn’t just pick on mould inspector’s – last week’s brilliant “expert” was a certified industrial hygienist.)

In any event, from a moisture control perspective, I concur with your assessment and recommendation, since, unless these is a specific, demonstrable cure, the VB will probably just lower the hygric buffering capacity of the structure.

As Phillip points out, there is a difference between a vapor retarder and a vapor barrier, however, I don’t think the distinction is of any importance in this case, unless, Phillip’s point is that if the permeation is high enough, then there is no harm in leaving it in place; in which case, I agree with Philip.


Cheers,
Caoimhín P. Connell
Forensic Industrial Hygienist
Forensic Industrial Hygiene

(The opinions expressed here are exclusively my personal opinions and do not necessarily reflect my professional opinion, opinion of my employer, agency, peers, or professional affiliates. The above post is for information only and does not reflect professional advice and is not intended to supercede the professional advice of others.)

AMDG