A siding repair job that has a new section of house wrap installed.

In construction, air and moisture infiltration can’t always be avoided—it’s impossible to protect a home from all the elements. But house wrap has helped control the problem and is used today for many homes. 

Many homeowners, however, don’t know exactly what house wrap is. 

What Does House Wrap Do? 

House wraps prevent moisture, mold, and drafts from entering your home and can act as a strong barrier against moisture or wind. This moisture barrier is especially useful in humid climates that receive a lot of rain because it can prevent damage from water penetration. This water-resistive barrier prevents mold and mildew formation inside your wall cavities. 

What Is House Wrap Made Of? 

House wrap is a synthetic material that has come to replace asphalt-treated paper—this lightweight material is installed over the sheathing and behind the siding. Basically, house wrap is the home’s last line of defense against air leaks, water infiltration, leaks, etc. 

This thin but resilient material functions as a weather-resistant barrier, preventing rain from getting into the wall assembly while allowing water vapor to pass to the exterior. If sealed carefully, it’s also effective as an air barrier for homes. 

Are you interested in getting your siding replaced or want to solve your drafty home or home moisture problems with house wrap? Call Shanco today to start the process of a free in-home consultation!  

The Benefits of House Wrap 

When installed and sealed correctly, house wrap helps: 

  • Increase energy efficiency 

  • Prevent mold growth, wood rot, and other problems related to moisture infiltration 

  • Make homes more comfortable all year round 

  • Eliminate air leaks 

  • Provide some insulating value 

  • Improve the efficiency of HVAC systems which saves you money 

Are you looking into better ways to insulate or improve your home comfort with roofing, siding, or house wrap services? Give Shanco, local siding experts, a call today to learn more about home services in Gaithersburg, MD, NOVA, Richmond, VA, and nearby! 

House Wrap Tips for Your Home 

Although you won’t have to worry about this with our professionals handling the installation, in general, the following are good tips to keep in mind: 

  • Upper layers should be lapped over lower layers. 

  • The edges of windows and doors should be wrapped. 

  • A drainage provision should be installed at the bottom of the external cladding material. 

Tyvek® HomeWrap® 

DuPont™ Tyvek® HomeWrap® is one of the most popular house wrap brands. This “original” house wrap is one of the best you can install. The unique nonwoven structure of Tyvek® HomeWrap® makes it breathable, allowing moisture vapor to pass through this wrap also has effective perforated wraps and comes with a 10-year limited warranty from DuPont. 

House Wrap Installation in MD, DC & VA 

In addition to siding installation, Shanco Companies can replace your old trim with new, state-of-the-art PVC vinyl wood or wrap your existing wood with vinyl-coated aluminum trim for a maintenance-free exterior. Our team often recommends: 

  • Tyvek® HomeWrap® 

  • AZEK vinyl trim 

  • Custom wrapping of exterior trim with PVC-coated aluminum 

We also offer our own personal workmanship guarantee on top of the manufacturer’s product warranty! Contact us today to learn more about our home improvement services in the Washington, DC, NOVA, and Richmond metropolitan areas.