1.15. Consideration of Characteristics of Accessory Materials
1.15.1. Vapor Barriers
Condensation of water will occur on surfaces at temperatures below the atmospheric dew point, due to water vapor drawn towards the cold surface as a result of the difference in partial vapor pressure between the air at ambient temperature and the temperature of the cold surface. Unless it is possible for this moisture to be re-evaporated, it can be absorbed into any permeable insulating material that may be applied to the cold surface, thus increasing the thermal conductivity of that material, with impairment of its effectiveness.
The purpose of the vapor barrier is to reduce, and if possible to prevent, the ingress of water vapor into the insulating material, Thus, ...
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