Vapor barriers are essential in Philippine construction to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold, structural damage, and poor insulation. Whether you’re working on a residential, commercial, or industrial project, knowing the latest vapor barrier price list helps in budgeting effectively. In this blog post, you will know the latest vapor barrier price in the Philippines for the year 2024. But, we need to learn first what is vapor barrier, its use and important.
What is a Vapor Barrier? Types, Uses, and Importance in Construction
A vapor barrier (also called a vapor retarder) is a crucial building material designed to block moisture from passing through walls, ceilings, and floors. In humid climates like the Philippines, where excessive moisture can lead to mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage, vapor barriers play a vital role in maintaining a building’s durability and indoor air quality.
How Does a Vapor Barrier Work?
Moisture naturally moves from areas of high humidity to low humidity through a process called vapor diffusion. Without a proper barrier, this moisture can seep into insulation, drywall, and wooden structures, causing:
Mold and mildew buildup (health hazard)
Reduced insulation efficiency (higher energy costs)
Corrosion of metal fixtures
Warping of wooden frames
A vapor barrier blocks this moisture transfer, keeping the building envelope dry and stable.
Types of Vapor Barriers
Vapor barriers are classified based on material, permeability (breathability), and placement in construction.
1. Polyethylene Plastic Sheets (Most Common)
Material: Thin, flexible plastic (usually 6mm–10mm thick).
Permeability: Low (Class I vapor retarder).
Best for: Walls, crawl spaces, and under concrete slabs.
Pros: Affordable, easy to install.
Cons: Can tear if not handled carefully.
2. Aluminum Foil Vapor Barriers
Material: Foil-faced kraft paper or reinforced aluminum.
Permeability: Very low (excellent moisture block).
Best for: Hot climates (reflects heat) and roofs.
Pros: Reflects radiant heat, durable.
Cons: More expensive than polyethylene.
3. Bitumen-Based (Self-Adhesive) Barriers
Material: Rubberized asphalt with a sticky backing.
Permeability: Waterproof (used in wet areas).
Best for: Basements, bathrooms, and foundations.
Pros: Self-sealing, great for waterproofing.
Cons: Difficult to reposition once applied.
4. EPDM Rubber Membranes
Material: Synthetic rubber (1mm–2mm thick).
Permeability: Highly waterproof.
Best for: Flat roofs, green roofs, and below-grade waterproofing.
Pros: Extremely durable, UV-resistant.
Cons: Expensive, requires professional installation.
5. Breathable (Permeable) Vapor Barriers
Material: Specialized fabrics that allow some moisture escape.
Permeability: Medium (Class II or III).
Best for: Wooden structures needing airflow (e.g., attics).
Pros: Prevents trapped moisture.
Cons: Not suitable for all climates.
Where Are Vapor Barriers Used?
Walls & Ceilings – Prevents condensation inside insulation.
Floors & Crawl Spaces – Blocks ground moisture from rising.
Roofs & Attics – Reduces heat and moisture buildup.
Basements & Foundations – Waterproofs against soil moisture.
Why Are Vapor Barriers Important?
Prevents Structural Damage – Moisture weakens wood, corrodes metal, and degrades concrete.
Improves Indoor Air Quality – Reduces mold spores that cause allergies and respiratory issues.
Enhances Energy Efficiency – Wet insulation loses R-value, increasing cooling/heating costs.
Extends Building Lifespan – Protects against long-term moisture-related decay.
Choosing the Right Vapor Barrier
For Humid Climates (Like the Philippines): Use Class I (impermeable) barriers (polyethylene, foil).
For Mixed Climates: Breathable barriers help prevent trapped moisture.
For High-Traffic Areas: Reinforced or rubberized barriers offer extra durability.
Why Use a Vapor Barrier?
Before diving into costs, let’s quickly recap why vapor barriers are crucial:
✔ Prevents moisture damage – Stops condensation from seeping into walls and ceilings.
✔ Improves insulation efficiency – Helps maintain stable indoor temperatures.
✔ Reduces mold & mildew risk – Protects against health hazards caused by dampness.
✔ Extends building lifespan – Minimizes corrosion and wood rot.
A properly installed vapor barrier is a small investment with huge long-term benefits, especially in tropical countries like the Philippines. Whether you’re building a new home or renovating, selecting the right type ensures better durability, lower maintenance costs, and a healthier living environment.
Factors Affecting Vapor Barrier Prices
Material Type – Polyethylene is cheaper than EPDM or foil-backed barriers.
Thickness – Thicker barriers (10mm+) cost more but offer better protection.
Brand & Supplier – Prices vary between Wilcon, CitiHardware, and local suppliers.
Location – Metro Manila prices may be higher due to demand.
Vapor Barrier Price List 2024 in the Philippines
Here’s an updated comparison of vapor barrier materials, their specifications, and current market prices:
| Specification | Unit | Price (PHP) |
|---|---|---|
| 6mm Polyethylene Vapor Barrier | per sqm | 50 - 80 |
| 10mm Polyethylene Sheet | per sqm | 90 - 120 |
| Aluminum Foil Vapor Barrier (1.2m x 50m) | per roll | 1,800 - 2,500 |
| Self-Adhesive Vapor Barrier (Bitumen) | per roll | 3,500 - 5,000 |
| Reinforced Polyethylene (500 gauge) | per sqm | 70 - 100 |
| Vapor Barrier w/ Fiberglass Mesh | per sqm | 120 - 150 |
| EPDM Rubber Vapor Barrier (1.5mm) | per sqm | 250 - 350 |
| PVC Vapor Barrier (0.5mm) | per sqm | 60 - 90 |
| Double-Sided Vapor Barrier | per sqm | 110 - 140 |
| Permeable Vapor Barrier (Breathable) | per sqm | 200 - 300 |
Need an Excel copy of this table? Download here
✅ What’s Included in the Unit Price?
Material Cost Only
Prices reflect the base cost of the vapor barrier material per unit (per sqm or per roll).
Does not include taxes, shipping fees, or installation labor.
Standard Specifications
Prices are based on common thicknesses and material types (e.g., 6mm polyethylene, 1.5mm EPDM).
Variations (e.g., reinforced, fire-rated, or UV-resistant barriers) may cost extra.
Supplier Price Ranges
Quotes are derived from major hardware stores & construction suppliers (e.g., Wilcon, CitiHardware).
❌ What’s NOT Included?
Installation Costs
Labor fees for installation typically range from PHP 50–150 per sqm, depending on complexity.
Transportation & Delivery Fees
Prices exclude shipping charges, which vary by location (Metro Manila vs. provincial rates).
Customizations & Add-ons
Specialty barriers (e.g., antimicrobial coatings, double-sided adhesive) may have additional costs.
Taxes & Discounts
VAT (12%) or bulk purchase discounts are not factored in unless specified by the supplier.
⚠️ Key Considerations When Using This Price List
Regional Price Differences
Costs may be 10–20% higher in remote areas due to logistics.
Metro Manila and Luzon prices are often cheaper than Visayas/Mindanao.
Brand & Quality Variations
Cheaper brands may have lower durability.
Premium brands (e.g., EPDM rubber) justify higher costs with longer lifespans.
Fluctuations Due to Market Conditions
Prices may change due to fuel costs, import taxes, or seasonal demand (e.g., rainy season).
Bulk Purchase Discounts
Some suppliers offer 5–15% discounts for orders above 100 sqm/rolls.
Recommendation for Buyers
Always request a formal quotation from suppliers for exact pricing.
Compare material warranties (e.g., 5-year vs. 10-year guarantees).
Check for promos (e.g., Wilcon’s annual sale or contractor discounts).
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