The Benefits of Using Tyvek as a Primary House Wrap

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 35 views

The Ultimate Guide to Tyvek Below Tarpaper: A Comprehensive Discussion on Siding and House Wrap

When it comes to protecting your home from the elements, a reliable house wrap is essential. Two popular options are Tyvek and tarpaper, but which one should you use, and in what order? In this article, we'll delve into the world of siding and house wrap, exploring the benefits and drawbacks of using Tyvek below tarpaper.

Understanding the Basics

What is Tyvek?

Tyvek is a type of house wrap made from a non-woven polyethylene material. It's designed to provide a durable, water-resistant barrier between the exterior of your home and the interior. Tyvek is breathable, allowing moisture to escape while preventing wind-driven rain from entering your home.

What is Tarpaper?

Tarpaper, also known as building paper, is a type of paper-based house wrap. It's been used for decades to protect homes from the elements. Tarpaper is a more traditional option, but it has some limitations, including a higher risk of water damage and a shorter lifespan compared to Tyvek.

The Debate: Tyvek Below Tarpaper

Why Use Tyvek Below Tarpaper?

Some builders and homeowners argue that using Tyvek below tarpaper provides an added layer of protection against the elements. This approach can be beneficial in areas with high winds, heavy rainfall, or extreme temperatures. By placing Tyvek below tarpaper, you create a double barrier that can help prevent water damage and reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth.

Drawbacks of Using Tyvek Below Tarpaper

However, using Tyvek below tarpaper can also create some issues. For one, it can increase the risk of condensation buildup between the two layers, leading to moisture-related problems. Additionally, the added layer of Tyvek can make it more difficult to install siding, as it may require additional fastening and sealing.

The Benefits of Using Tyvek as a Primary House Wrap

Why Choose Tyvek as a Primary House Wrap?

Tyvek is a popular choice for house wrap due to its durability, breathability, and water-resistance. When used as a primary house wrap, Tyvek provides a reliable barrier against the elements, reducing the risk of water damage and mold growth. Additionally, Tyvek is relatively easy to install and can be used with a variety of siding materials.

Can Tyvek be Used Below Tarpaper?

While some builders and homeowners may choose to use Tyvek below tarpaper, it's essential to note that this approach is not recommended by the manufacturer. In fact, Tyvek is designed to be used as a primary house wrap, not as a secondary layer below tarpaper.

The Risks of Using Tarpaper as a Primary House Wrap

Why Avoid Using Tarpaper as a Primary House Wrap?

Tarpaper has been largely replaced by Tyvek and other modern house wraps due to its limitations. Tarpaper is more prone to water damage, has a shorter lifespan, and can be more difficult to install. Additionally, tarpaper may not provide the same level of breathability as Tyvek, leading to moisture-related problems.

Can Tarpaper be Used Below Tyvek?

While it's possible to use tarpaper below Tyvek, it's not the recommended approach. In fact, using tarpaper below Tyvek can create more problems than it solves, including increased risk of condensation buildup and moisture-related issues.

In conclusion, while using Tyvek below tarpaper may provide an added layer of protection against the elements, it's not the recommended approach. Tyvek is a reliable and durable house wrap that should be used as a primary barrier against the elements. Tarpaper, on the other hand, has been largely replaced by modern house wraps due to its limitations. By choosing the right house wrap for your home, you can ensure a safe and durable exterior that will withstand the test of time.

Use Tyvek as a primary house wrap for its durability, breathability, and water-resistance.
Avoid using tarpaper as a primary house wrap due to its limitations and increased risk of water damage.
If you choose to use tarpaper, consider using it below Tyvek, but be aware of the potential risks and limitations.
Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for house wrap installation and use.

When it comes to protecting your home from the elements, a reliable house wrap is essential. By choosing the right house wrap for your home, you can ensure a safe and durable exterior that will withstand the test of time. Remember to use Tyvek as a primary house wrap and avoid using tarpaper as a primary house wrap due to its limitations. By following these recommendations, you can create a strong and durable exterior that will protect your home for years to come.
Tyvek Below Tarpaper: A Q&A Guide

In our previous article, we discussed the benefits and drawbacks of using Tyvek below tarpaper. However, we understand that you may still have some questions about this topic. In this article, we'll address some of the most frequently asked questions about using Tyvek below tarpaper.

Q: What is the recommended installation order for Tyvek and tarpaper?

A: The recommended installation order is to use Tyvek as a primary house wrap, followed by the siding material. Tarpaper should not be used as a primary house wrap, but rather as a secondary layer below Tyvek.

Q: Can I use Tyvek below tarpaper if I'm in a high-wind area?

A: While Tyvek can provide some protection against high winds, using it below tarpaper may not be the best approach. In high-wind areas, it's essential to use a reliable house wrap that can withstand strong gusts. Tyvek is a good option, but using it below tarpaper may create more problems than it solves.

Q: What are the benefits of using Tyvek as a primary house wrap?

A: Tyvek is a durable, breathable, and water-resistant house wrap that provides a reliable barrier against the elements. It's relatively easy to install and can be used with a variety of siding materials.

Q: Can I use tarpaper below Tyvek if I'm concerned about moisture buildup?

A: While tarpaper can provide some protection against moisture, using it below Tyvek may not be the best approach. In fact, using tarpaper below Tyvek can create more problems than it solves, including increased risk of condensation buildup and moisture-related issues.

Q: What are the risks of using tarpaper as a primary house wrap?

A: Tarpaper has been largely replaced by modern house wraps due to its limitations. It's more prone to water damage, has a shorter lifespan, and can be more difficult to install. Additionally, tarpaper may not provide the same level of breathability as Tyvek, leading to moisture-related problems.

Q: Can I use Tyvek below tarpaper if I'm on a budget?

A: While using Tyvek below tarpaper may seem like a cost-effective option, it's essential to consider the long-term costs and potential problems. Tyvek is a reliable and durable house wrap that can provide long-term protection against the elements. Using tarpaper below Tyvek may not be the best approach, even if it's cheaper upfront.

Q: What are the manufacturer's recommendations for using Tyvek below tarpaper?

A: The manufacturer of Tyvek recommends using it as a primary house wrap, not as a secondary layer below tarpaper. In fact, using Tyvek below tarpaper may void the warranty and create more problems than it solves.

In conclusion, using Tyvek below tarpaper is not the recommended approach. Tyvek is a reliable and durable house wrap that should be used as a primary barrier against the elements. Tarpaper, on the other hand, has been largely replaced by modern house wraps due to its limitations. By choosing the right house wrap for your home, you can ensure a safe and durable exterior that will withstand the test of time.

Use Tyvek as a primary house wrap for its durability, breathability, and water-resistance.
Avoid using tarpaper as a primary house wrap due to its limitations and increased risk of water damage.
If you choose to use tarpaper, consider using it below Tyvek, but be aware of the potential risks and limitations.
Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations for house wrap installation and use.