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The use of modern vapor barriers and rubber membranes has become popular with contractors over the past few decades.  We have seen catastrophic damage caused by these technologies.  Although the function of these membranes is to keep water out, we have seen them trap water.  In some cases this may have been a result of improper installation.  One thing has become clear to us about the use of these technologies, the acceleration of rot is unprecedented.  We have found that structures with good air circulation do much better than those that are sealed up too tight.  Care and caution should be exercised when choosing moisture barriers so that in the event that moisture is able to get in that it can get back out without being wicked up by the timbers.