WhiteCap 16 Mil Crawl Space Vapor Barrier

Description

Not every crawl space is an easy job. Some are tight, rocky, and wet with no margin for error. That’s where our WhiteCap 16 Mil Woven Vapor Barrier comes in.

It’s our second-thickest liner, made for homeowners and contractors who want more protection than a standard barrier can offer. With a reinforced woven core, this liner handles rough ground, frequent foot traffic, and moisture-prone environments without tearing or breaking down.

Bright white on both sides and easy to install, the 16 mil vapor barrier is perfect for crawl space floors, walls, and piers. If you’ve got a tough space to seal and you want it done right, this is the liner to trust.

Why Encapsulate Your Crawl Space?

Bare dirt under your home is constantly pushing out moisture and soil gases. In summer, warm humid air creeps upward through the house, raising energy bills and feeding mold. In winter, condensation forms on cold framing, setting the stage for wood rot.

Encapsulation solves the problem. By sealing the crawl space floor and walls with a vapor barrier and taping all seams, you keep moisture out and protect everything above it.

Key Benefits of Encapsulation

• Cleaner indoor air – Reduces allergens, radon, and airborne mold spores
• Lower energy bills – Drier air is easier and cheaper to heat and cool
• Stronger framing – Keeps joists and beams dry, helping prevent decay and pests
• Fewer pests – Takes away the damp conditions that insects and rodents love
• Better resale value – An encapsulated crawl space is a clear selling point

Why Pros Choose WhiteCap 16 Mil

• Reinforced woven core resists tears, punctures, and abrasion
• True 16 mil thickness throughout the sheet, not just in ridges
• Low perm rating to stop moisture and vapor before it spreads
• Virgin polyethylene – no recycled fillers, odors, or off-gassing
• Bright white surface reflects light and makes the space easier to work in
• Compatible with tapes, anchors, and sealants for full encapsulation systems

Key Specs

Installation Tips

Link to Step by Step Encapsulation Guide (pdf, 656Kb)

• Clear out rocks, debris, or old insulation before installing
• Unroll with a 6 to 12 inch overlap on all seams
• Tape all seams with WhiteCap Seam Tape
• Extend liner 6 inches up block walls and anchor every 18 inches
• Seal upper edges with butyl termination tape for a clean, airtight finish

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I choose 16 mil instead of 12 mil?

If your crawl space has rough gravel, heavy foot traffic, or high humidity, the 16 mil is the better choice. It adds strength and peace of mind.

Can I use this liner on vertical surfaces?

Yes, it’s strong but flexible. You can install it on walls, piers, or around obstacles without issue.

What makes this better than store-bought plastic sheeting?

Store plastic is often thin and full of recycled fillers that tear easily and release odors. This liner is pure, reinforced polyethylene and built to last.

Will this help with radon?

Yes. When properly sealed, it limits soil gas intrusion and works alongside radon mitigation systems.

Suggested Accessories

• WhiteCap Seam Tape – 4 in × 180 ft
• WhiteCap Butyl Termination Tape – 2 in × 50 ft
• Ground Anchor Liner Stakes – pack of 100

Additional information