Aurutõkkem

Aurutõkkem, also known as a vapor barrier or steam barrier, is a material used in building construction to prevent or control the movement of water vapor. Its primary function is to stop moisture from migrating through building envelopes, such as walls, floors, and roofs. This is crucial for preventing condensation within structural elements, which can lead to mold growth, rot, and reduced insulation effectiveness.

The effectiveness of an aurutõkkem is measured by its permeance, which indicates how easily water vapor can pass through it. Materials with low permeance are considered good vapor barriers. Common materials used for aurutõkkem include polyethylene sheeting, foil-faced insulation boards, and certain types of paints or coatings. The specific material chosen depends on the climate, building design, and the materials used in the construction.

Proper installation is critical for an aurutõkkem to function correctly. It must be continuous and sealed at all seams and penetrations to prevent air leakage, which can carry significant amounts of moisture. The placement of the aurutõkkem within the building assembly is also important and is typically located on the warm side of the insulation in cold climates, and on the cool side in hot and humid climates, to minimize condensation potential. Incorrect placement can lead to moisture problems.