Bathroom Insulation and Ventilation

By Robert Robillard on Bathrooms

Bathroom Insulation and Ventilation

Fiberglass insulation with 6 mil plastic vapor barrier

Vapor Barriers

I get a lot of questions about moisture in the bathroom, specifically rooms with showers. While bathroom moisture vapor in the air can be transferred through walls and ceilings, the real issue is when moisture vapor becomes trapped in walls, resulting in mold and mildew growth.  Mold is unhealthy and can damage your home and present a potential health concerns.

So how do we enjoy the hot steamy showers and avoid mold problems?  The answer is a combination of using the proper insulation combined with excellent ventilation.

Let’s talk about vapor barriers. The level of vapor control required on the interior side of framed walls with fiberglass, rockwool, or cellulose insulation is determined by local building codes, which are based off the Department of Energy’s climate zones for construction.

In my neck of the woods we used fiberglass or Cellulose insulation and a plastic vapor barrier for years, and this method still works well. Lately I’ve been using spray polyurethane foam (SPF), which, at least in North America, is fast becoming one of the more popular options for new and remodeling insulation methods. I should note that it is the MOST expensive option available.

Bathroom Insulation and Ventilation

Spray Foam Insulation

What is SPF?

Spray polyurethane foam is a heat-activated polymer that is sprayed into place, turns foamy, expands and then eventually hardens in place. The best part of SPF is that it fill all gaps and crevices that fibourus insulation cannot reach, this sealing off air leaks in the process.

Bathroom Insulation and Ventilation

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!

About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

All posts by Robert »

Not what you're looking for?

Search for more articles here. Enter keywords like roof leak, bookcase, deck, etc to find your topic.

© Copyright 2019 A Concord Carpenter · All Rights Reserved