Sofia Martinez
Plastic sheeting is commonly used to cover dirt foundations to prevent moisture and vapour from infiltrating a home. This is especially important in basements, where condensation can get into walls and insulation, causing mould and mildew. Plastic sheeting can also be used to direct water away from a house and prevent weeds from growing. When laying plastic on a dirt foundation, it's important to ensure that the seams overlap and are taped down securely. The type of plastic sheeting used is also important, with thicker grades of polyethylene plastic being preferable for enhanced durability and moisture resistance.
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What You'll Learn
Use polyethylene plastic sheeting for the best moisture protection
Plastic sheeting is a popular method to combat moisture in dirt basements. While it is a good idea to lay plastic on a dirt foundation to prevent moisture, it is important to choose the right type of plastic sheeting. Construction-grade polyethylene sheeting is the lowest grade of polyethylene sheeting available. It is made from recycled goods, reground resins, and inexpensive resins, and is not guaranteed to be pinhole-free. Construction-grade polyethylene can have defects, and its quality control is the lowest in the plastics industry.
For the best moisture protection, it is recommended to use engineered films specifically designed for use as vapor retarders. These films are made from 100% virgin resins and have excellent quality control. They are tested to the ASTM E1745 standard, which is the standard for vapor retarders in contact with soil or granular fill under concrete slabs. Unlike construction-grade poly, these engineered films are designed not to decay and will not break down over time.
When choosing plastic sheeting for moisture protection, it is important to consider the thickness and durability of the plastic. Heavy-duty plastic sheeting is designed to withstand hard use and great strain. It is made to be strong and protect what it is employed to protect. Thicker plastic sheeting, such as 6 mil polyethylene, will last longer and provide better protection than thinner alternatives.
Additionally, it is important to properly seal the plastic sheeting to ensure effective moisture protection. This can be done by using tape to seal the overlaps between sheets and along the bottom of the walls. By following these recommendations, you can effectively use polyethylene plastic sheeting to achieve the best moisture protection for your dirt foundation.
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Tape down the plastic sheeting to seal it
When laying plastic sheeting on a dirt foundation, taping down the plastic sheeting is an important step to ensure a proper seal. A well-sealed plastic sheet can help reduce the amount of rising vapour and moisture within the covered space.
To begin taping down the plastic sheeting, start by overlapping the edges of the sheets and applying a specialised tape designed for plastic sheeting adhesion. Avoid using duct tape, as it can potentially damage paint on nearby surfaces. Instead, opt for tapes specifically designed for dust protection, such as Tyvek tape or Shurtape. These tapes are effective in creating a strong seal while also being easy to remove later.
When joining the plastic sheeting to itself, sheathing tape or Tyvek tape can be used. For a stronger hold, consider double-sided tape, which provides a more secure adhesion. Additionally, ensure that the tape is applied smoothly and firmly along the edges and seams of the plastic sheeting to prevent any gaps or openings that might compromise the seal.
If you are taping the plastic sheeting to walls, blue outdoor painter's tape or Dolphin brand poly hanging tape are good options that are less likely to damage paint. For a stronger hold, you can use double-sided poly tape, which will ensure a secure attachment to the walls. It is important to clean and dry the surface of the walls before applying the tape to achieve the best adhesion and a proper seal.
By following these steps and using the appropriate tapes, you can effectively tape down and seal plastic sheeting on a dirt foundation, helping to manage moisture and vapour in the enclosed space.
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Cover masonry foundation walls with insulation or drywall
Covering masonry foundation walls with insulation or drywall can be a complex process, and there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to determine if the masonry walls are experiencing any moisture issues. If there is moisture present, it is crucial to address this before proceeding with insulation or drywall installation, as improper management of moisture can lead to mould, musty smells, and damage to the masonry or surrounding structures.
One way to manage moisture is by creating a capillary break, which can help reduce the presence of moisture due to capillary wicking. Additionally, ensuring proper waterproofing and drainage systems are in place is essential to prevent bulk water penetration.
When it comes to insulation, there are several options available for masonry foundation walls. Rigid foam insulation is a popular choice, as it can be installed in various ways, such as cast within a concrete wall, poured into the cavities of masonry walls, or placed as a skirt around the foundation to keep the soil below warmer and prevent freeze-thaw cycle damage. Other insulation options include polystyrene beads, granular insulation materials, spray foam, rigid fiberglass, and rigid mineral wool panels.
However, it is important to note that the use of interior insulation on masonry walls below grade can increase the moisture content of the wall if not properly managed. This is because the interior of the wall becomes colder, limiting its drying potential. Therefore, it is recommended to ensure that the wall can maintain some drying capacity to the interior if wetting occurs. Exterior insulation is often preferred, but it can be more difficult and costly to install.
When installing drywall, it is essential to use a moisture-resistant variety, such as extruded polystyrene or Type IV expanded polystyrene. The drywall should be sealed with caulking to all adjacent surfaces, including the subfloor, joists, insulation, and foundation, to create a continuous air and vapour barrier.
In summary, when covering masonry foundation walls with insulation or drywall, it is crucial to address any moisture issues, select appropriate insulation materials, manage interior moisture effectively, and ensure proper sealing of drywall to create an effective barrier against moisture and energy loss.
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Use gravel to hold the plastic in place
When laying plastic on a dirt foundation, gravel can be used to hold the plastic in place. This method is often used to prevent water from seeping into the foundation of a house or building.
To do this, first, pack dirt or structural dirt around the perimeter of the foundation, ensuring a slope that angles away from the structure. The recommended slope is at least 1 inch per foot away from the building. This step is crucial for proper grading and effective drainage.
Next, lay a layer of waterproof membrane, such as 6-mil poly, on top of the packed dirt. This layer acts as a moisture barrier, preventing water from seeping down and damaging the foundation.
Finally, cover the plastic with gravel. It is recommended to use mountain granite gravel for this purpose. The gravel should be at least 3 inches thick, with 3-4 layers, to effectively hold the plastic in place and ensure stability when walking on it.
Additionally, you can use gravel stabilization products, such as TRUEGRID PRO PLUS® or PRO LITE pavers, to prevent the gravel from spreading and ensure a stable surface. These pavers are made from recycled plastic and help lock the gravel into place, reducing maintenance requirements.
By following these steps, you can effectively use gravel to hold plastic in place on a dirt foundation, protecting the foundation from moisture and creating a stable surface.
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Ensure the ground slopes away from the house
When laying plastic on a dirt foundation, it is crucial to ensure that the ground slopes away from the house. Proper grading around your house is essential for several reasons, including preventing water damage, protecting your foundation, and preventing erosion.
Firstly, the ground should be graded to facilitate adequate water drainage away from the structure. If the ground slopes towards the house, water will be directed towards the foundation, potentially causing water damage. By ensuring the ground slopes away from the house, you can prevent water from pooling near the foundation and direct it towards safer areas. This is crucial because water accumulation near the foundation can lead to erosion, weakening the foundation and compromising the stability and safety of your house.
To achieve proper grading, the ground should ideally drop one inch for every one foot you move away from the house for the first 5 to 10 feet. This can be accomplished by adding or removing soil accordingly. If the ground slopes towards the house, you can fill the area with dirt to create a level surface and then reshape the slope so that it gently slopes away from the foundation. It is recommended to have at least four inches of your foundation showing above the soil.
In some cases, installing a drainage system may be necessary to effectively manage rainwater runoff and direct it away from the foundation. Several types of drainage systems are available, including French drains, surface drains, and swales. A swale, a shallow channel that directs water away from a specific area, is the most common form of drainage.
By ensuring that the ground slopes away from the house and implementing proper drainage techniques, you can help prevent water damage, protect your foundation, and maintain the stability and safety of your home.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic sheeting on a dirt foundation helps to control moisture and create a barrier against vapour. It minimises the risk of mould or mildew and can also help create a more suitable storage space.
Homeowners typically use polyethylene plastic sheeting for moisture abatement and storage protection. A thicker grade of material is preferable as thinner sheeting is generally not sufficient as a barrier against vapour or moisture. Experts recommend sheeting that is either 10-mil or 20-mil for enhanced durability and moisture resistance.
You will need a straightedge, tape measure, landscape fabric stakes, a hammer, utility knife and duct tape. Begin by cutting and laying down strips of plastic sheeting, ensuring that the seams overlap. Tape down the seams and use the landscape fabric stakes to secure the sheeting to the soil by hammering them into the ground around the edges.
Some people believe that laying plastic on a dirt foundation will shift the moisture to adjacent soil spaces, which may super-saturate the soil and create settling or subsidence problems.
An alternative method to combat moisture is to pack dirt around the house perimeter with at least a 1-inch per foot slope away from the house. Then, a layer of waterproof membrane is laid on top of the dirt, followed by gravel to facilitate drainage.
