Shower/Tub on Exterior Walls Air Barrier

[Rays197]

I would like to know what some inspectors are allowing for air barriers behind showers/tubs on outside walls. Some are allowing sheet plastic to meet the code 2021 ICC residential code requirement in the energy efficiency section. Some are asking for a permeable material as stated in the foot notes.

 

[redeyedfly]

I would like to know what some inspectors are allowing for air barriers behind showers/tubs on outside walls. Some are allowing sheet plastic to meet the code 2021 ICC residential code requirement in the energy efficiency section. Some are asking for a permeable material as stated in the foot notes.

Air barrier or vapor retarder?

 

[Rays197]

Air barrier or vapor retarder?

Code section states air barrier.

 

[redeyedfly]

Code section states air barrier.

Please post which code section you are referring to.

Typically the issue at tubs is a double vapor retarder because the waterproofing of the surround is a vapor retarder. I have never heard of an issue with air barriers at a tub.