[cjstripe]

Hi there! Has anyone else with an unfinished basement basement ever noticed condensation/moisture behind the vapor barrier on the exterior wall?

Wasn’t sure if this was an issue due to the heavy rainfall, or if it could be normal due to humidity? Some photos are attached. For reference, this is a walkout basement wall, so not a concrete wall.

 

[cjstripe]

If the vapor barrier was placed over spray foam, it is most likely coming from humidity in the room. Doubtful it is coming from the outside of the wall.

If the vapor barrier was placed over spray foam, it is most likely coming from humidity in the room. Doubtful it is coming from the outside of the wall.

There is spray foam insulation near the ceiling by the floor joists above, but the rest of the wall is insulated batting, not spray foam. Does that make a difference? It was quite humid and hot outside when these photos were taken.

 

[cjstripe]

So there is outside air on the other side of that wall, not dirt ?

Where are you located? What temp do you keep the AC at ?

You are correct, it is fully above grade, no dirt behind wall.

We are in Central Minnesota. It was relatively warm and humid outside yesterday (about 85F and dew point around 70F). Inside we keep it around 72F, but it was a bit warmer inside most of the day as we were away and thermostat set to a bit warmer.

 

[cjstripe]

The vapor barrier is stapled to studs and there is some adhesive/glue smeared around edges, but I wouldn’t say it’s perfectly sealed