My uncle told me to always use a 6 mil vapor barrier on concrete slabs, even if the builder says it's dry.

Taylor Hayes · 2026-03-24T14:05:13.703685+00:00

He was a floor guy for 40 years, so I listened. On a job in Spokane last fall, the builder insisted the slab was cured and ready. I put the barrier down anyway. Two months later, the homeowner called to say the floor in the room next door, where another crew skipped the barrier, was buckling. That one call saved me a huge headache. How do you all handle pushback on prep steps you know are right?

vera_murphy6mo ago

Ever feel like a broken record explaining why you're putting down plastic on a perfectly good looking floor? I've gotten so used to the pushback I just mumble "trust me" and keep rolling it out.

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vera_murphy6mo ago

Cutting corners to save time now always costs more later, doesn't it?

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cameronmurray6mo ago

Question if it's always needed though. Some slabs are bone dry and in a controlled space. Seen plenty of installs hold up fine without it.

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