One of the most overlooked components of your home is the house wrap. Concealed by the siding, it protects against moisture infiltration while also playing a role in keeping your home energy-efficient. Today’s blog takes a look at what it is, including its function and whether it is necessary before siding installations.
About the House Wrap
Imagine a shield that keeps rain, wind and drafts from entering your home while also allowing moisture to escape. That’s what a house wrap is — a super-thin yet remarkably strong layer of material that provides an extra barrier between your home’s interior walls and the outdoors. Without it, the elements can easily penetrate the siding, causing water damage and air infiltration.
What Does a House Wrap Do?
The following are some of the functions of the house wrap:
- Manage Moisture. Rainwater, snow and humidity cannot seep into the walls with the house wrap installed. Together with the siding, it helps preserve the structural integrity of the building materials.
- Keeps Home Energy-Efficient. The house wrap further enhances a home’s energy efficiency by minimizing air leakage. With this installed, conditioned air cannot escape from your living spaces.
- Ensure Indoor Comfort. The house wrap also contributes to improving year-round indoor comfort. This means outdoor air can’t wreak havoc on your home’s indoor climate.
Is a House Wrap Necessary Before Siding Installations?
If it is a new home construction, then the answer is yes, a house wrap is a must-have when installing siding. After all, siding panels alone cannot provide adequate protection against moisture and drafts. It serves as your insurance policy, ensuring the longevity and performance of your siding. In fact, building codes in many jurisdictions require the installation of a house wrap as a standard practice.
If it is a siding replacement project, however, the need for a house wrap will depend on whether the existing material is still intact and free of any issues or not. Over time, it can lose its tensile strength and ability to repel water. After the pros remove the old siding, they will have to examine the existing house wrap first before deciding to replace it with a new one prior to installing the new siding.
Including a high-quality house wrap helps to ensure a robust and weather-resistant envelope. For your siding needs, turn to Howard Roofing & Home Improvements in Arnold, MO. Give us a call at (636) 296-1057, or fill out our contact form to request a quote.