This cross-section of building materials shows a sheet of blue house wrap.
Fisher Lumber has an extensive supply of building materials for homeowners and construction contractors alike. Today, we’d like to put a spotlight on a commonly-used and necessary building material used in the construction of homes: TYVEX™ Housewrap.
What is Housewrap?
Housewrap is a synthetic material used to protect buildings. Modern housewrap has replaced older synthetic materials like asphalt-treated paper or asphalt saturated felt. By adding this protective layer between the wood paneling and the siding of a house, the interior wood and fiberglass stays protected and dry. Without this protective layer, the interior of a home can develop mold or rot, which jeopardizes the infrastructure of the building and the health and safety of its inhabitants.
What Are the Benefits of Housewrap?
In addition to the basic benefit of protecting a home against weather damages, housewrap has several other benefits over traditional asphalt wrap. Housewrap is easier to install because it’s made of a lighter material and comes in larger sheaths. The addition of housewrap to a home can also help the homeowner to save money on energy costs as well as reduce air infiltration and UV exposure, creating a healthier home.
How Should Housewrap Be Installed?
Because housewrap provides a defensive layer against moisture, it’s very important the it be installed properly. If not installed properly, housewrap can cause more damage than benefits. Here are some tips for installing housewrap properly:
- Make sure to seal your housewrap with the special tape that is provided by the manufacturer. This tape was made specially to keep your housewrap in place.
- Start applying from the bottom and work your way up. Make sure to overlap the lower layers with the upper layers as you work up.
- Wrap the material around the edges of doors and windows. You don’t want to leave any vulnerable areas where moisture can get in!
- If possible, install the housewrap before the second top wall plate is installed and definitely before the double top wall plate is installed.
- Many builders recommend installing a drainage provision at the bottom of the external siding material to help keep moisture away from the home.
Fisher Lumber and Hardware
Since 1894, Fisher Lumber and Hardware has been serving homeowners and professional contractors in the Maryland, Washington D.C., and Northern Virginia areas with top quality lumber, building materials, tools, and accessories. Operating under the same ownership since 1947, our business has been built on our reputation with our customers. Get in touch with us today by calling 301-424-6500 or by visiting our website. Stay in touch via Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and Google+ too!