Are water-resistive barriers the same as vapor barriers?
• No. Vapor barriers prevent water vapor transmission, while water-resistive barriers are designed to prevent liquid water intrusion. While it is good construction practice to use water-resistive barriers for residential structures, the use and location of vapor barriers depend on climate, geography. No. Vapor barriers prevent water vapor transmission, while water-resistive barriers are designed to prevent liquid water intrusion. While it is good construction practice to use water-resistive barriers for residential structures, the use and location of vapor barriers depend on climate, geography, building design and local code requirements.
