To Face or Not to Face? That Is the (Insulation) Question | Johns ...

Wondering whether to use faced or unfaced fiberglass insulation for a residential project? It’ll depend on where you’re insulating and what steps come next. We’ve got the breakdown on the different products so you’ll know exactly what to pick.

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Unfaced insulation

• Commonly used in attics, crawlspaces, interior walls and between floors
• Can be left exposed 

Unfaced insulation is a plain batt or roll of fiberglass insulation with no facing. It is Class A fire-rated, which means it can be left exposed, or used in specific fire-rated assemblies. Unfaced insulation can also be used with vapor retarders such as polyethylene or polypropylene (depending on local code). Unfaced insulation batts or rolls can be added to existing unfaced insulation.

These batts or rolls are held in place by nestling it between studs, joists or rafters in the walls. If used in an overhead application that will be left exposed, such as an attic, additional insulation supports will be required to keep it in place. 

Johns Manville Formaldehyde-free™ Unfaced thermal and acoustical insulation offers R-values of up to R-49. Precut batts fit standard wall cavities, or rolls can be used for custom installation in any size cavity. It helps reduce sound transmission through walls, ceilings and floors, plus it is thermally efficient and reduces heat transfer.

Faced insulation

• Commonly used in exterior walls, attic ceilings and first-time applications
• Cannot be left exposed

Outside of selecting the correct pole barn size, code, and features, choosing the proper vapor barrier insulation facing is the next crucial selection. The proper vapor barrier protects your pole barn from moisture penetration and improves indoor comfort. Moisture not only compromises the R-value (energy efficiency) but can also cause mold and mildew, which, over time, may adversely affect the structural integrity of a pole barn.

Choosing a properly installed pole barn vapor barrier facing is essential for maintaining energy efficiency and preventing moisture issues.

The right pole barn vapor barrier facing will ensure optimal performance and longevity of your insulation.

There are many insulation facing types to choose from. Here’s a breakdown of the 5 Best Pole Barn Vapor barrier facings.

1. WMP-VR-R Facing (White Metalized Polypropylene – Vinyl Reinforced- Plus)

Why it’s an excellent pole barn insulation choice: WMP-VR-R is the most popular choice due to its cost savings, attractive white finish, and durability.

• Excellent vapor barrier: Low permeability rating ideal for high-humidity regions.
• Tear-resistant: Reinforced with fiberglass scrim for durability during and after installation.
• Bright finish: The white reflective surface enhances interior lighting, making it perfect for workshops, storage structures, or agricultural buildings.

Ideal Usage: General pole barn use in humid climates where durability and aesthetics are essential.

2. FSK Facing(fr,pt,tr) (Foil-Scrim-Kraft)

Why choose this type of pole barn vapor barrier facing? It is not as popular as WMP, but it performs well.

Enhanced moisture control: This pole barn vapor barrier facing effectively prevents moisture buildup.

• Superior radiant heat reflection: The foil layer reflects heat, helping to regulate temperature.
• Great for fire resistance: Often used in commercial and industrial buildings because it meets fire code standards.
• Tough and durable: The scrim reinforcement adds strength, resisting tears and punctures.

Best Usage: Barns in hot, sunny areas or with radiant heat concerns are also great for structures requiring fire-rated insulation.

3. WMP-50 Facing

Why is this an excellent metal building insulation and pole barn vapor barrier facing? There are four popular WMP facings. WMP-VR-R (plus), WMP-10, WMP-30, and WMP-50. The WMP-50 has the lowest permeability and durability of the four.

• Heavier-duty version of WMP-VR: Offers even more strength and puncture resistance.
• Low permeability: An excellent vapor barrier prevents condensation buildup.
• Smooth white finish: Gives a clean look and improves ambient lighting.

Best for: High-traffic pole barns like equipment storage areas or mechanic shops where extra durability is needed.

4. PSK Facing (Poly-Scrim-Kraft)

Why it’s a good choice: If you want to save a few pennies, this is your choice.

• Versatile vapor barrier: Works well in both cold and warm climates.
• Less reflective but still practical: It has a more subdued finish than FSK or WMP but is still aesthetically neutral.
• Cost-effective: It offers a solid balance of performance and price.

5. Reflective Bubble Insulation with Vapor Barrier Facing

Why it’s excellent pole barn vapor barrier facing :

• Multi-functional: Combines insulation, radiant, and vapor barriers in one.
• Easy to install: Lightweight and flexible, ideal for retrofits or DIY projects.
• Moisture and mold resistant: Great for barns with high moisture exposure like livestock areas.

Best for: DIY insulation jobs, animal barns, or retrofits where flexibility and mold resistance are key.

Why Vapor Barrier Facings Matter in Pole Barns

It’s about protection! Once moisture has damaged insulation, it often needs to be replaced. Pole barns are naturally prone to moisture issues due to their wood construction, wide-open interiors, and exposure to temperature swings. Molded wood structurally can deteriorate quicker than mold on metal. Though some of these points were noted earlier, they are worth repeating. Without a vapor barrier, insulation can become saturated, leading to:

• Mold and mildew growth
• Corroded metal and wood surfaces
• Reduced insulation effectiveness
• Poor air quality

A properly selected facing protects against moisture and enhances durability, aesthetics, and energy efficiency.

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