Sold under many names

House wrap

WRB — weather-resistive barrier

The sheet material wrapped over the wall sheathing, under the siding, that blocks bulk water while letting the wall dry — the last line of defense behind the siding.

What it means for you

Siding is a rain screen, not a waterproof shell — water gets behind it, and the house wrap (properly lapped, taped, and tied into window flashing) is what keeps that water out of the wall. On a re-side, whether the crew replaces and details the wrap is a real quality question.

Where you'll see it

Behind the siding; you only see it during install or a tear-off.

Also sold as: weather-resistive barrier

Related terms

Defined by Terrane Joseph

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