Self-adhering weather barriers like Grip-Rite® ProWrap™-SA are becoming increasingly common in the building products industry. Between fluid-applied and self-adhering products, it’s clear that builders are embracing new house wrap and air barrier options.
While these aren’t new, recent innovations have made self-adhering products more convenient and easier to use. Primerless products with peel-and-stick application reduce the time and labor necessary for installation. Pair that with more energy-efficient performance features, and you have a recipe for success.
Let’s explore the pros and cons of self-adhering weather-resistant barriers to see how they can benefit your building projects.
Weather-resistive barriers are a critical part of the building envelope. Along with more efficient installation, self-adhering WRBs incorporate other innovative features.
High-performance products provide 3-in-1 protection from water, exterior air, and interior vapor buildup. With layers that prevent bulk water and high wind intrusion, directional permeability allows moisture from the wall cavity to evaporate.
Preventing bulk water intrusion is one of the primary functions of a weather-resistive barrier. Some self-adhering WRBs have high drainability, and others include raised bumps or wrinkles to provide extra drainage potential.
Vapor from inside the structure can build up in the wall cavity, causing mold or rot over time. Permeability measures how efficiently a WRB moves humidity away from the sheathing, allowing it to evaporate. Some manufacturers achieve 10 to 20 perms, but that’s not enough for a humid climate. Look for products with 50 to 60 perms for high-performance wet environments.
Like fluid-applied products, self-adhering house wrap bonds directly to the sheathing, providing an airtight connection. In high-wind areas, there is no space for air to get in between the sheathing and WRB.
The adhesives used in self-adhering WRBs are typically designed to self-seal around protrusions. If fasteners pierce the membrane, you generally won’t lose the continuous air or water barrier in that area.
For larger protrusions, use a compatible flashing tape to preserve performance.
In Grip-Rite ProWrap-SA, the red outer layer is a spunbonded, non-woven polypropylene fabric that prevents damage to the microporous film sandwiched between. This prevents physical damage from fasteners and scaffolding that could compromise performance.
The self-adhesive layer creates a powerful bond between ProWrap-SA and the sheathing layer. The outer layers protect against UV damage and prevent delamination.
While a learning curve is associated with self-adhering products for crews used to mechanical attachment, it’s not a big one. To apply a product like ProWrap-SA, a two-person crew can unroll and cut to size before peeling the split-back release film and rolling to secure it. Essentially, that’s the procedure. No staples or nails are necessary.
Grip-Rite ProWrap-SA is our award-winning self-adhering weather-resistive barrier with next-level features. It comprises a tri-laminate polypropylene fabric and butyl adhesive, providing superior durability and performance.
Combine with ProWrap™ BUTYL and FLEX Window & Door Protector flashing tapes for a continuous weather-resistant barrier.
At Grip-Rite, we stand behind our products with our PROtection System 15-year limited warranty.
Use one product from each category to get a 15-year limited warranty on your installation.
Self-adhering house wrap provides a seamless connection between your weather-resistant barrier and sheathing for superior protection from the elements. At Grip-Rite, our patented process brings the best to your residential or commercial construction projects. Backed by our PROtection System warranty, you can rest easy knowing you have Grip-Rite.
Find our Where to Buy Grip-Rite ProWrap-SA near you today!
