Author:
Alex Habay
in July 2017
Before you start covering your house with exterior cladding, there is one important thing you must take into account and that is insulating house wrap. Applying insulating house wrap will help with temperature control, keep the seasonal elements out of your home and ultimately maximize comfort. The installation of insulating house wrap is essential to a comfortable home and here are 3 things you should know before making any decision about your next exterior design project:
1. High R-Value
R-value is a unit of measurement for the effectiveness of insulation. The higher the R-value, the more resistance a material has to the movement of heat. Ideally you want quality polystyrene foam core insulation plus a reflective aluminum facer; this will provide a long lasting high R-value. When installed, the added insulation will reduce air infiltration and insulate wood studs, while blocking the wood-to-wood thermal transfer of outside temperatures. By "sealing the envelope” with insulation, homes become more comfortable and energy efficient. Here is an example of the Levelwall Advanced Wall System at work:
2. An Advanced Wall System
Insulated house wrap should always have an air infiltration barrier included. Many manufacturers skip the step of air permeability, resulting in a product that traps moisture leading to mold or dry rot. Tiny breather holes in insulation enhance water vapor permeability without affecting rigidity, thus allowing moisture to evaporate, keeping the home dry.
Another added benefit to insulating house warp is an increased sound barrier. The added layer of foam insulation results in a reduced level of outside noise entering the home.
This sound dampening effect helps to turn the volume down on those unpleasant outside noises such as lawnmower engines, barking dogs, passing trains and anything else that would result in an annoyance, distraction or even loss of sleep.
3. Easy Application and Safe to Use
Installers will want an insulated house wrap product that can be applied in any season and has all weather workability. A flat, even insulation product that will create a level, flawless finish and will make the job of installing vinyl siding fast and easy. Furthermore, installers will want a safe, non-toxic compound to maximize workplace efficiency and safety. A high quality expanded polystyrene foam core, consisting of carbon and hydrogen, which contains no harmful chemicals or toxic additives are ideal.
