Visqueen
Definition and meaning of Visqueen in real estate.
Visqueen is a brand name commonly used to describe heavy-duty polyethylene plastic sheeting that serves as a vapor barrier in construction.
In more detail
Ground moisture in a crawl space can cause elevated humidity, leading to mold, wood rot, and poor indoor air quality. By laying Visqueen over the dirt floor, builders create a barrier that traps moisture in the soil. The thickness of this sheeting is measured in mils, and building codes in many areas require a thickness of at least six mils for durability.
Inspectors examine crawl spaces to verify the plastic is intact, properly overlapped at the seams, and taped to the foundation walls.
Key facts
| Category | Property Types & Construction |
|---|---|
| Material | Polyethylene plastic sheeting |
| Minimum thickness | Typically six mils or thicker |
| Main purpose | Vapor barrier and moisture control |
A contractor lays a thick sheet of Visqueen across the damp dirt of a crawl space to block moisture from entering the floor structure above.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Visqueen used in crawl spaces?
Visqueen acts as a vapor barrier that stops ground moisture from evaporating into the crawl space, which helps prevent wood rot and mold.
Can Visqueen be used under concrete foundations?
Yes, laying Visqueen before pouring concrete prevents moisture from migrating up through the slab and damaging the finished flooring inside.