Installing a house wrap is usually considered in siding installation projects. It offers several benefits like moisture protection, added insulation and improved energy efficiency. House wraps also come in different types designed to meet specific needs.
Read on as Twin Cities Siding and Roofing shares more information about house wraps.
Functions of House Wraps
Moisture Protection
Primarily, a house wrap prevents water and moisture from seeping through the wall cavity of the home. By installing a house wrap before your siding installation, you can reduce the likelihood of wood rot, mold growth and moisture infiltration in your home.
Air Infiltration Control
There are types of siding that have small gaps and cracks at the joints where siding panels line up. These areas can cause air infiltration and seepage, leading to high energy bills. Fortunately, you can address these problems by installing special house wrap that prevents cold air from entering the wall cavities. To create an effective air barrier, it’s best to leave the installation task to experienced siding contractors.
Types of House Wraps
Asphalt Felt
Asphalt felt house wraps soak up water when wet, increasing their permeability. Due to this high permeability, the absorbed water gradually dries, helping prevent moisture from being trapped. However, asphalt felts don’t hold up well when exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period, so they’re best used in colder areas.
Grade D Building Paper
A combination between kraft paper and asphalt, grade D building papers are highly water-resistant. This type of house wrap is commonly used under stucco exteriors and has a similar vapor permeability as asphalt felts. However, grade D building papers deteriorate when left wet for a long time. Most installers solve this problem by using two layers of grade D building paper. When the material wrinkles, small air pockets are formed between the layers, improving the airflow and helping the paper dry faster.
Integrated WRB Sheathing
Designed with an integrated water-resistive barrier, integrated WRB sheathing prevents water accumulation between the panel surface and the back of the house wrap material. Unlike traditional house wrap options that are vulnerable to ripping or tearing, integrated WRB sheathing is highly durable. The only drawback of this house wrap type is that it’s not widely accessible yet, making it significantly more expensive than most of its counterparts.
If you’re looking for a siding contractor that can install the right house wrap for your home, Twin Cities Siding and Roofing is here to assist you. As a trusted service provider in Minneapolis and St. Paul, MN, we are committed to providing high-quality house wrap installation and other siding-related services. To get started with your project, call (651) 967-0873 or complete our contact form.
