Vapor Barrier

[Dan]

I have a house on a concrete slab. When the house was set up the installers put down a vapor barrier over the slab. Before my contractor could install the perimerter block wall, it rained like crazy for a week. Thus, about an inch of water got under the vapor barrier and is now trapped under the house. Some of the water is on top of the barrier due to small holes in the plastic. My contracter said it would evaporate but it has not (8 months).

My paln was to pump out the water, rip out the plastic vapor barrier, let it dry out then replace the vapor barrier. Does this make sense or do I not need a vapor barrier over concrete?

If I do need a barrier, any suggestions for installing it?

Thanks for the help!

Dan

[Mark Bower]

I think the vapor barrier should have been under the concrete. I probably wouldn't put the vapor barrier back unless you find a code that says you should.

I would pump out the water and then using fans and such, get it dried out. Always keep ventilation in the future and the vapor barrier should become a mute issue.

Mark
You gotta see my repair manual!

[Eugene]

Mark is right. A vapor barrier on top the concrete will only trap water, remove it and dry it our. Make sure the crawl space is vented properly. 1 sq foot of free air vent for every 150 square foot of floor area of the house.

[Dan]

I agree with you guys, but alas, the county says I have to replace the plastic. I have good ventilation so I think I'll leave the plastic loose on the perimeter to let the moisture out.