What You Need to Know About House Wraps
Understanding the purpose and limitations of house wrap will help in understanding the control layers in a wall. As a water resistive barrier (WRB), it keeps the exterior elements (liquid water) from penetrating the wall cavity.
What is the Purpose of a House Wrap?
House wrap is a type of building material used to cover the exterior walls of a building. We designed it to protect the building from wind, rain, and other elements, while also improving the building’s energy efficiency
There are several key functions that house wrap is designed to perform:
- Water Resistance: Since house wrap consists of waterproof materials, such as plastic or a synthetic fiber, it keeps water out of the building envelope. This can help to prevent moisture damage to the building’s structure and finishes.
- Wind Resistance: Another feature of house wrap is its ability to resist wind, which can help to protect the building from wind-driven rain and other wind-related damage.
- Energy Efficiency: House wrap helps improve a building’s energy efficiency by providing a barrier to heat and cold. This helps reduce energy bills and improves overall comfort levels.
- Durability: The durable composition of house wrap enables it to withstand the elements and last for many years.
- Ease of Installation: House wrap is typically easy to install and can be used in conjunction with other types of insulation and building materials.
Can I Use Radiant Barrier as a House Wrap?
YES you can! In fact, our DIY ES® Radiant Barrier performed as a reflective House Wrap for Hillary Farr’s home in the hit HGTV series, “Love It or List It” (Season 19, Episode 2)
It is important to install a perforated reflective house wrap radiant barrier correctly in order to achieve the desired benefits. In general, we recommend installing the radiant barrier as an air barrier and secondary drainage plane, with an appropriate air space between the radiant barrier and the cladding.
An air barrier helps to control air flow through the building envelope, which can improve the overall energy efficiency of the building. A secondary drainage plane helps to manage water vapor and moisture within the building envelope, which can help to prevent damage from moisture and condensation.
By installing the radiant barrier directly behind the cladding, with an appropriate air space between the two, the radiant barrier can function effectively as an air barrier and secondary drainage plane. This can help to improve the overall energy efficiency and durability of the building.
However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions and local building codes when installing a radiant barrier. In some cases, additional insulation or other measures may be necessary to meet energy efficiency and moisture control requirements. Contact us today for more information!