ZIP System® Sheathing vs Tyvek® HomeWrap® (2024)

FAQs

ZIP System® Sheathing vs Tyvek® HomeWrap®? ›

ZIP System® tape is prone to stress and tears at inside corners, creating yet another place for air and water to get into the wall. Tyvek® HomeWrap® folds easily into corners—forming a continuous barrier against air and water infiltration.

Trusted by building professionals everywhere, DuPont™ Tyvek® building wraps, part of the complete DuPont™ Weatherization Systems portfolio, provide superior performance compared to ZIP System® wall sheathing (wood-based sheathing with a water-resistive overlay) as further described in this document.

Does ZIP System need to be covered with housewrap? Not in most cases. The integrated overlay on ZIP System sheathing meets WRB code requirements. Sealed seams using ZIP System tape or liquid flash are also effective.

ZIP sheathing works well with the sheathing tapes to create an airtight barrier and to prevent air leakage. It makes the walls more enduring that provide better energy efficiency than other materials. Plus, its additional insulating layer ensures high thermal resistance to the walls.

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No. The polyiso foam of the ZIP System R-sheathing panel has low vapor permeability, and adding additional impermeable insulation such as XPS, EPS, or polyiso foam will create a vapor barrier sandwich around the sheathing panel.

ZIP System Roof and Wall Sheathing is furnished with a 30-year system warranty as well as a 30-year warranty against manufacturing defects. Visit ZIPSystem.com for limitations and restrictions.

Swelling – Whereas ZIP sheathing can swell along the edges and corners when exposed to water prior to taping, swelling of ZIP sheathing is also a possibility when panels are damaged during construction.

Generally, the ZIP system's costing is also worth it, even though it's slightly more expensive than Tyvek because of its better air sealing capabilities and energy efficiency.

Do you need underlayment with zip system? ›

ZIP System Roof & Wall sheathing is intended to replace the first layer of underlayment required by the IBC and/or the IRC. Additional layers of underlayment may be required by code depending on the local climate.

- Do not use H-clips with ZIP System roof sheathing. They are not required by code with this product and they may interfere with the tape seal. * Check local building code requirements for roof sheathing fastening details in high- wind regions.

OSB can be between $10-$25 a sheet, ranging from $1,700-$4,400 for the whole house. Plywood can range from $16-$24 per sheet and $2,800-$4,200 for the whole house. While ZIP can be $16-$26 per sheet, leaving you with $2,800-$4,700 for the whole house.

TYVEK HOUSEWRAP FROM DUPONT

Tyvek is a time-tested and trusted housewrap product engineered and produced by the folks at DuPont. Tyvek is a breathable, non-woven housewrap system designed for performance and efficiency. It is a non-stick material that needs to be installed with staples or nails.

ZIP System® Tape transforms our sheathing panels into a seamless protective barrier for the outside of your building. Its advanced acrylic adhesive is proven to deliver a superior airtight and watertight seal that resists harsh elements.

Each layer of ZIP System® Tape is engineered with a purpose, and they combine to form an easy-to-install, high-performance product. Its advanced acrylic adhesive actually gets stronger over time, and the tape thickness is optimized for a lasting seal that is completely airtight and watertight.

As a product of building and materials science, ZIP System sheathing boasts superior performance under varying environmental conditions. Its ability to withstand harsh weather, resist water and air leakage, and provide long-lasting durability makes it a solid and dependable choice for almost any building project.

Huber's Zip System wall sheathing has become a popular alternative to conventional wood sheathing because the system incorporates an air and water-resistive barrier, which negates the need for papering with house wrap (no more sheets torn and flapping in the winter winds).

OSB can be between $10-$25 a sheet, ranging from $1,700-$4,400 for the whole house. Plywood can range from $16-$24 per sheet and $2,800-$4,200 for the whole house. While ZIP can be $16-$26 per sheet, leaving you with $2,800-$4,700 for the whole house.