Housewrap stirs up a lot of confusion. Does it prevent moisture? Inhibit mold? Help prevent drafts? It does all three. Depending on how it’s hung, housewrap can either act as a moisture or wind barrier. So, should you install housewrap under the siding? Read on to find out.
When used to slow winds, its job is to seal gaps and leaks in the OSB panels or plywood sheathing that makes up your home’s exterior walls. That keeps drafts from reaching your insulation and prevents heated and cooled air from seeping out through the walls. Although your siding is your home’s first defense against wind, many types have small gaps and cracks at the joints where siding panels line up. And that leads to air infiltration and seepage — the kinds of things that drive up energy costs.
Moisture barrier house wraps do the same thing but for rain, snow, and other outside moisture. They’re usually made with a permeable material that allows water vapor to travel through them — but keeps out water droplets. This helps them dry out quickly and prevents problems from mold that can happen when water sits on the surface.
If you’re thinking about installing housewrap during a siding project, here’s what you need to know.
How to Tell if Your Home Needs a Housewrap
Generally, a home’s construction method dictates the type of housewrap (if any) a building needs. A professional builder or contractor should always make the final call on housewrap — using it incorrectly can affect your home’s ventilation or cause mold to build up.
Additionally, where you live and your home’s climate will factor into housewrap, too. For instance, your contractor may install a vapor barrier on just one side of your home if you live in a cold climate. Housewraps and vapor barriers are usually addressed in local building codes (in fact, many places require some kind of weather-resistant barrier), so a professional contractor can also make sure that your home is up to code.
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When installing house wrap with rigid foam, it should typically go under the insulation. However, it’s best to follow your contractor’s advice, as not all professionals agree on the order. Some builders suggest that homes with “picture frame” window construction—where windows are framed with strapping lumber before installation—should have the rigid foam installed first, with house wrap on top. Both methods help prevent air leaks and infiltration effectively.
How Housewrap Affects Ventilation
However, many green building experts argue that no home can be over-sealed, only poorly ventilated. Odors can indicate poor air exchange. If cooking smells linger for hours after a meal, it might be time to check your home’s ventilation.
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Housewrap and Moisture and Mold
Choosing to install house wrap under siding is a personal decision. Discuss it with your contractor to decide what’s best. A residing project is a great time to check your home’s weather barrier and insulation and make any needed improvements. This will boost your home’s appeal from the outside in.
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