Avoid plastic wall coverings that can trap moisture
Wall coverings that allow the passage of moisture are better for the house.
Wall coverings made from paper or natural fibers gradually gave way to more robust wall coverings for commercial interiors. They were made mostly from plastic, especially PVC. Although they are easier to clean, they also can trap moisture inside walls. Instead, look for products made from natural and rapidly renewable materials, including wood pulp, cork, grasses, and other plant fibers. At least one vinylCommon term for polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In chemistry, vinyl refers to a carbon-and-hydrogen group (H2C=CH–) that attaches to another functional group, such as chlorine (vinyl chloride) or acetate (vinyl acetate). wall covering manufacturer has experimented with a pattern of microscopic pinholes to increase vapor permeability.
Learn more in the Green Building Encyclopedia
ENCLOSURE OVERVIEW
INTERIOR FINISH & TRIM
Further Resources
Building Science Corp.
Thermodynamics: It’s Not Rocket Science
Profiled in our Product Guide
