If you’re planning to get new siding this season, you should also consider whether you’ll need a house wrap. This refers to a moisture and air barrier (sometimes radiant barrier as well) that can keep your home’s energy costs to a minimum by providing an additional layer of insulation.
A house wrap can prevent moisture from entering your home, lowers the chance of mold growth and eliminates the potential of air leakage. But this will depend on how it is hung. When acting as a wind barrier, the house wrap seals any gaps and leaks in the panels and sheathing that make up your exterior walls. Moisture barrier house wraps do the same thing, only they head off rain, snow and other outdoor moisture. With this in place, you can keep your home safe and mold-free.
This will depend on a number of factors, including your home’s construction method and your area’s climate. Building codes typically have a section in local building codes dictating the way how (or if) it should be installed to your home. Your siding contractor should always make the final call on the house wrap because using it incorrectly can cause problems with your home’s ventilation.
Because the house wrap is installed under your siding, it will last for as long as your home stands. Barring disasters, structural damage or improper installation, you won’t need to change or replace the house wrap at all.
When installed incorrectly, the house wrap can actually increase moisture or contribute to mold growth in your home. You’d better leave the work to professionals who already know their way around these weather-resistant barriers.
Roof Masters can handle any of your exterior home improvement needs, whether these involve gutters replacement or siding installation. With our top-tier services, keeping your home comfortable, efficient and damage-free will be a breeze. We serve the areas in and around Rockville, MD. Call us today at (301) 230-7663, or fill out this contact form to schedule your consultation. We’d love to hear from you!