Siding is an exterior element that adds to your home’s curb appeal and protects it from the elements. What many homeowners may not realize is that there’s another component beneath the siding that plays an equally important role: house wraps. This material is designed to prevent the property’s structure from damage, as the guide below explains.

Purpose of House Wraps

During siding installation, contractors add house wrap directly behind the siding to stop water from seeping through the walls and prevent air from escaping and entering. This lightweight, thin material is surprisingly durable and resilient, which helps defend the property from moisture intrusion, drafts, mildew, and air leaks. It also boosts the home’s energy efficiency by reducing your dependency on the HVAC system, minimizes the potential for mold and mildew growth, and regulates your indoor temperatures year-round.

Different Types of Wraps

Several different water-resistant wrap materials exist, including synthetic house wrap, spun plastic, and grade D building paper. During construction, your contractor will take into consideration the home’s design, as well as the local climate, to select the most appropriate type.

In general, the most commonly installed product is synthetic, which serves as an efficient moisture barrier and airflow resistor. By comparison, both spun plastic and building paper are economical choices but are less commonly installed.

Wrap Installation Process

You will likely get your wrap replaced when hiring a contractor to install new siding. Because large pieces are tough to handle, they will cut it into more manageable sizes before priming the siding to promote a friendlier surface for installation. As they wrap, they’ll cover every seam with at least a few inches of additional material to ensure optimal coverage and minimize the odds of any breaks.

Could your siding use some attention? Turn to the team at Buffalo Roofing in Kearney, NE. Proudly serving Central Nebraska homeowners since 2009, the company offers everything from siding installation to roof repairs. They also work on new construction projects to ensure that your home is as safe and comfortable as possible. Visit them online for information or give them a call at (308) 224-3163 to schedule service.