Professional House Wrap Installation for Long-Lasting Exterior Protection
Tailored for Local Conditions
We install exterior house wrap designed to handle wet climate, reducing the risk of mold and structural damage.
Energy-Efficient Approach
Our house wrap installation helps seal the building envelope, improving insulation performance and lowering energy bills.
Skilled and Efficient Team
We handle each step with care—from prep to final seal—so your house wrap installation is done right the first time.
Compatible with All Siding Types
Whether it’s Hardie, vinyl, or wood, our exterior house wrap works with any cladding for long-term protection and a cleaner finish.
House Wrap Installation Services for Durable Exterior Protection
Home wrap membranes (also known as house wrap) are a type of weather-resistant barrier used in residential and commercial construction. These membranes are installed on the exterior walls of buildings, beneath the siding or exterior cladding, to protect the structure from moisture, air infiltration, and other environmental factors.
Key Features and Benefits of Home Wrap Membranes:
- Moisture Protection: One of the primary functions of house wrap is to protect the structure from water infiltration. It prevents rain, snow, and other forms of moisture from entering the walls while still allowing water vapor to escape. This helps to reduce the risk of mold, mildew, and rot within the walls.
- Air Barrier: House wraps help to reduce air infiltration, preventing drafts and improving the overall energy efficiency of the building. By minimizing the amount of outside air entering the building, it helps to maintain a consistent interior temperature and reduces heating and cooling costs.
- Breathability: A good home wrap membrane is breathable, meaning it allows water vapor (from inside the building) to escape without letting moisture from the outside get in. This is important for preventing condensation buildup inside the walls, which can lead to mold growth or other issues.
- Enhanced Insulation: While house wraps are not insulation materials themselves, they work in conjunction with insulation to improve the overall energy efficiency of the building. By reducing air and moisture infiltration, the home wrap membrane supports the effectiveness of the insulation in keeping the home warm in winter and cool in summer.
- Protection from Wind and UV: Some house wraps are designed to be wind-resistant, offering protection against strong winds and reducing heat loss. They also often feature UV resistance to help prevent degradation of the membrane when exposed to sunlight during the construction process.
- Easy Installation: Most home wrap membranes are lightweight and relatively easy to install. They come in large rolls and are typically fastened to the exterior sheathing of the building using nails or staples. Seams are often taped or sealed to ensure proper coverage and avoid leaks.
Common Types of Home Wrap Membranes:
- Polyethylene (PE) Wrap: This is one of the most common materials used for house wrap membranes. It's made from plastic and is relatively inexpensive. However, it can sometimes be less breathable than other options.
- Tyvek (DuPont Tyvek): Tyvek is one of the most well-known and widely used brands of house wrap. It’s a synthetic material that’s designed to be breathable, durable, and water-resistant. Tyvek allows water vapor to escape while keeping moisture and wind out.
- Fiberglass Wrap: Made from fiberglass, these wraps are durable and can be used for additional insulation benefits, though they tend to be heavier and less flexible than other materials.
- Smart Membranes: Some newer house wraps are "smart" membranes that adjust to varying moisture levels. These membranes become more permeable when the moisture level inside the wall is high, allowing the wall to dry out. This helps reduce the risk of mold growth or moisture damage.
Popular House Wrap Brands:
- Tyvek (DuPont)
- Airtight (by CertainTeed)
- Owens Corning (Unbranded versions are often sold)
- ZIP System (which combines a sheathing product and weather-resistant barrier in one)
- Fortifiber (weather-resistant barriers)
Installation Process:
- Preparation: Begin by ensuring the exterior sheathing of the building is clean and free from debris.
- Wrap Application: Start at the bottom of the wall and unroll the home wrap membrane horizontally, overlapping each successive layer. This creates a waterproof barrier that directs water away from the structure.
- Sealing: Ensure all seams and edges are sealed properly using house wrap tape or a similar adhesive product to prevent water infiltration. Pay special attention to corners, windows, and doors, where moisture might seep in.
- Siding Installation: Once the house wrap is properly installed and sealed, siding (such as HardiePlank or vinyl) is applied over the wrap to protect it further from environmental damage.
Advantages of Using Home Wrap Membranes:
- Enhanced Energy Efficiency: By reducing drafts and controlling moisture, house wrap helps maintain a more stable indoor temperature.
- Mold and Mildew Prevention: Protects against mold and mildew that can result from moisture buildup inside the walls.
- Long-Term Protection: Increases the lifespan of the building by keeping out damaging elements like water, wind, and pests.
- Cost-Effective: House wrap membranes are relatively low-cost compared to other moisture protection methods and help reduce long-term maintenance costs.
Common Uses:
- Residential Construction: Home wraps are used extensively in new home builds and renovations to protect against moisture infiltration and improve energy efficiency.
- Commercial Construction: They are also used in commercial buildings to protect the structure from moisture while supporting insulation.
- Remodeling and Retrofitting: House wraps can be added to existing homes during remodeling or retrofitting to improve energy efficiency and protection.
Using a home wrap membrane is a great way to protect your building from moisture and air infiltration while supporting its energy efficiency and overall durability. If you're planning a construction project, house wrap is a crucial part of creating a long-lasting, comfortable, and energy-efficient building.
Protect Your Home with Professional House Wrap Installation
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River City Exteriors is a siding contractor that offers residential and commercial siding installation and repair services across Vancouver, North Vancouver, Greater Vancouver, Burnaby, Coquitlam, Calgary, and the surrounding areas.