Plastic Sheeting- FAQ about Polyethylene Sheeting

Q: What can plastic sheeting be used for?

A: The general uses for plastic sheeting are as follows: If something needs to be covered- Food, equipment, floors, walls, furniture, plants, dirt, scratches, If something needs to be protected from something else like dust, rain, paint, debris, vapor barrier, roots, UV rays, fire, static, damage from shipping. MORE HERE

Q: Right Mil Thickness For Your Crawlspace Vapor Barrier/ Retarder...Is 6-mil poly good enough?

A: Not Often is a 6 mil poly the best choice as a crawl space vapor barrier...WHY? There are building codes called, ASTM E1745 that categoriezes plastic sheeting according to its strength, longevity and durability.

Save your self time and money and do it right the first time.

Under Slab Vapor Barriers here.

What is LLDPE Used For?

LLDPE Common Applications:

Coal Ash Impoundments
Reserve Pits
Frac Pits
Under Rig Liners
Retention Ponds
Fresh Water Pits
Flowback Pits
Secondary Containment
Above ground Storage Tanks
MORE HERE

Q: Is Plastic Sheeting Waterproof?

A: In general terms, yes engineered plastic sheeting is waterproof.

Of all the sheeting we sell, that includes all BUT Construction and Agricultural grade sheeting (C&A), which is not normally considered waterproof.

C&A film (often referred to as visqueen) can have pinholes, fisheyes, and other imperfections, which are considered normal for those grades of sheeting. These imperfections generally keep this grade of plastic sheeting from qualifying as waterproof.

HOWEVER most plastic sheeting is not a moisture barrier. This means that if you put a thin layer of generic plastic sheeting under you slab to "stop moisture" from coming up under the slab, it won't stop that moisture. Your hardwood floors could warp and be ruined. Most people do not understand this....but you do!

Q: What is the heaviest Plastic Sheeting?

A: When referring to heaviest flexible plastic sheeting, HDPE goes up to 100 mil.

Q: What kind of plastic do you use for a greenhouse?

A:Regarding flexible plastic, polyethylene plastic is used for greenhouse covers and sidewalls. Sun destroys polyethylene. That's why you need a UV stabilized plastic to stand up to the sun. Generally the lesser expensive 6 mil plastic sheeting lasts maybe 4 years and then needs a recover. SolaWrap polyethylene sheeting has a 10 year UV rating and stands up to snow, wind, some hail, etc. MORE HERE

Q: Is Plastic Sheeting a Moisture Barrier? YES and NO!

A: Plastsic sheeting is an effective vapor barrier/vapor retarder if it meets the ASTM E1745 Standard Specification for Plastic Water Vapor Retarders Used in Contact with Soil or Granular Fill under Concrete Slabs.

This standard requires products undergo conditioning testing designed to simulate in-service (under-slab and installation) conditions, and it classifies vapor retarders based on their tensile strength, puncture resistance, and water vapor permeance ratings.

If you put construction grade plastic under your home thinking it will stop moisture from passing up to your flooring, you will be sorry.