CleanSpace vs. DIY Vapor Barriers: The Basement Liner Showdown
CleanSpace vs. DIY Vapor Barriers: The Basement Liner Showdown
If you’ve been battling a damp, musty basement, chances are you’ve considered adding a vapor barrier. A vapor barrier is a material installed to help stop moisture from passing through basement walls or floors, creating a cleaner, drier environment. But here’s the big question: should you roll up your sleeves and try a DIY solution from the local home improvement store, or invest in a professional-grade system like CleanSpace®?
Let’s put them head-to-head.
Round 1: Moisture Protection
DIY Vapor Barriers:
Most store-bought vapor barriers are made from thin plastic sheeting. While they might block some surface moisture, they’re prone to tears, gaps, and loose edges — especially when applied over rough concrete walls. Even a tiny gap can let in enough moisture to keep your basement damp.
CleanSpace®:
CleanSpace is a 20-mil-thick, multi-layer liner made from a high-density polyethylene blend. It’s engineered to be puncture-resistant, completely sealed, and designed to work in harmony with a full waterproofing system. The seams are heat-welded or mechanically fastened — meaning no sneaky water vapor can slip through.
Winner: CleanSpace® — hands down.
Round 2: Durability
DIY Vapor Barriers:
Thin plastic sheets can rip if bumped by stored boxes, shelving, or even during installation. Once torn, moisture can bypass the barrier entirely.
CleanSpace®:
With a heavy-duty, woven cord reinforcement, CleanSpace isn’t just tough — it’s designed to last for decades. It won’t sag, tear, or detach from the wall, even in high-traffic or storage-heavy basements.
Winner: CleanSpace® — built for the long haul.
Round 3: Aesthetics & Cleanliness
DIY Vapor Barriers:
Most plastic sheeting looks, well… like plastic sheeting. It often wrinkles, yellows, or collects condensation, leaving your basement looking unfinished.
CleanSpace®:
Bright white, clean, and professional-looking, CleanSpace instantly transforms the space. It reflects light to make the basement feel brighter and more inviting, and its antimicrobial additive resists mold and mildew growth.
Winner: CleanSpace® — because good looks matter.
Round 4: Integration with Waterproofing Systems
DIY Vapor Barriers:
These usually act as a standalone solution, without tying into a drainage system or sump pump. That means any water trapped behind the plastic will still find its way into your basement.
CleanSpace®:
Installed as part of a complete waterproofing system, CleanSpace channels water down to the WaterGuard® drainage system and into a sump pump, keeping it out of your basement for good.
Winner: CleanSpace® — moisture doesn’t stand a chance.
The Final Verdict
While DIY vapor barriers may be tempting for their low upfront cost, they’re simply no match for the performance, durability, and long-term protection of a professionally installed CleanSpace® system. It’s not just a cover-up — it’s a complete moisture control solution that protects your home, your health, and your peace of mind.
Ready to give your basement the CleanSpace® advantage?
Contact Keystone Basement Systems today for a free inspection and see how we can help you transform your damp basement into a dry, healthy, and usable space.