The humidity and humidity of an indoor pool can damage not only the internal construction materials, but can also penetrate the interior cavity of the pool structure (between the interior wall and the exterior wall of the pool room). Without the proper vapor retarder, pool moisture can migrate to these areas as air moves from the warm, indoor side of the pool room to the cooler outdoor air. Mold, rot, fungus, premature internal structural failure, decay and deterioration of insulation are some of the problems when vapor retarders are not installed or are not penetrated after installation.
Building and construction materials play an integral role in controlling moisture and moisture migration.
Vapor barriers are often overlooked in the design stages, forgotten, not installed, or installed incorrectly. Green Board, Dryvit, various other “boards”, aluminum-clad insulation, and other types of spray-in-place urethane foam insulation are not considered vapor barriers, nor are they generally recommended. There are very few acoustic ceiling tiles that are made to resist stratification of moisture in an indoor pool. The use of suspended ceilings is discouraged as they become moisture traps in swimming environments. Many of these types of materials have been used in the past with extremely negative results; They are not bulletproof when it comes to moisture damage. Therefore, with an effective vapor retarder, good insulation, negative pressure, and a properly designed pool room dehumidification system; Moisture damage can be prevented in the design / construction stages.
What materials constitute a vapor barrier?
In general, vapor barriers for an indoor pool are materials that do not allow moisture to pass from the surface to the structure. These are typically 8, 10, or 12 mil heavy plastic sheeting. The effectiveness of barriers to prevent moisture migration is rated by “permeability indices”. The higher the permanent rating, the less moisture will penetrate the barrier into the pool room structure. It is recommended that the barrier have a permanent rating of 0.10 or less when used in an indoor pool.
If an existing indoor pool and a vapor retarder cannot be installed under finished surfaces, other materials that may be considered vapor retarders are waterproof paints or other types of paints or sealants (consult a paint specialist or paint professional). building). We also recommend reviewing the ASHRAE Guidelines on Vapor Barriers for additional information.
Where is the vapor barrier located in an indoor pool?
Applying your vapor barrier is also critical to preventing moisture damage. The vapor barrier for all swimming pools is installed on the walls and ceilings below the finished surface (or the warm side of the pool room). We recommend 10-12 thousand. Seamless vapor barriers will be installed wrapping the entire pool room. The barrier overlaps and seals at the joints. Once installed, avoid barrier penetrations (i.e. recessed top hat can lighting is not recommended; mount all lighting on the surface). All penetrations by mechanical and electrical contractors must be hermetically sealed. It is recommended to seal the wall vapor barrier (not just overlap) to the roof vapor barrier.
Care must also be taken when installing insulation around the pool enclosure, as poor insulation leads directly to higher energy and operating costs. Be aware that gaps in the insulation create “cold spots” that also promote moisture condensation. If negative pressure is not designed, moisture can and will migrate to areas outside of the pool room. A properly designed indoor pool will ensure attention to these three important aspects of moisture migration and moisture management.