Vapor barriers... tyvex vs. tarpaper vs. ???

[TygerCub]

Well, since I finally painted my floor this evening, I'm now hoping to start actual CONstruction instead of DEstruction.
This weekend I'd like to put down a vapor barrier, then insulation board, then plywood. Somewhere in that mix, I'd also like to put a radiant barrier. Probably this stuff: Reflectix 4' x 25' Double Reflective Foil Insulation

What are the pros & cons of the following?

• Tyvex house wrap[/*:m:38cpfd87]
• Roofing Tar Paper[/*:m:38cpfd87]
• 6mil Plastic Sheeting[/*:m:38cpfd87]
• pond liner[/*:m:38cpfd87]

The "orange" and "blue" DIY stores sell the first three, and the local plant nursery sells the last one. I haven't done a cost comparison yet, but am looking for some of the best options.

Ooo! And lookie what I found while doing a search for "radiant" :P

Watts SunTouch - 10' x 30" Radiant Floor Warming Mat (120V) for $243.
Still expensive, but maybe worth it!

[baadpuppy]

In my opinion, tar paper will stink, and continue to stink every time it gets heated.

If you enjoy the smell of tar, then I'd say go for it.

hope this helps,
jim

[NewSkewlHauler]

That mat that you just posted seems a better deal than the last one you posted from Northern Tool or Harbor Freight. I really, really like the radiant floor heat idea. I'm still thinking about doing it with water when the time comes, but it's a big $$$$ investment and 120v unit that's 10'x30' would be great for down the road (genny or inverter power) or shore power. I'm glad you ran across that!

Ben.