When building a new home, the right materials make all the difference between a long-lasting, mold-free structure and one plagued by moisture damage, rot, and expensive repairs. Unfortunately, many builders today either skip house wrap entirely or use cheap, ineffective alternatives that fail to properly protect the home.

At K&K Designer Builds, we’ve seen firsthand how these shortcuts lead to major issues down the road. In this blog, we’ll break down:

• Why proper house wrap is essential

• The difference between cheap woven wraps vs. high-quality WRB systems

• The cost of doing it right vs. the cost of future repairs

Why House Wrap Matters

House wrap is a weather-resistant barrier (WRB) installed under a home’s siding. It serves two major purposes:

✔ Protects Against Water Infiltration – Stops rain and moisture from seeping into the walls.
✔ Allows Vapor to Escape – Prevents trapped moisture that can cause mold growth.

Without a proper house wrap system, moisture penetrates the home’s structure, leading to:
❌ Mold growth inside walls
❌ Rotting wood and framing
❌ Warping or bubbling siding
❌ Structural deterioration over time

The Problem: Cheap Woven House Wraps

Many builders use cheap, woven house wraps that don’t properly block moisture or allow airflow. These interwoven fiber wraps may be slightly water-resistant but are nowhere near as effective as non-woven, fully waterproof barriers.

What’s Wrong With Woven House Wraps?

• Absorbs water instead of repelling it

• Allows air leaks, reducing energy efficiency

• Breaks down quickly under UV exposure

• Poor tear resistance, leading to gaps

Homeowners often don’t realize this until it's too late, and they’re left dealing with mold problems, leaks, and deteriorating walls within just a few years.

What’s the Proper House Wrap System?

To ensure a long-lasting, moisture-resistant home, the best system includes:

✔ Non-Woven, High-Performance WRB (Weather-Resistant Barrier) – Brands like Tyvek DrainWrap, ZIP System, or HydroGap provide superior moisture protection.
✔ Proper Overlapping & Taping – House wrap must be installed correctly, with overlaps sealed using approved flashing tape.
✔ Integrated Flashing System – Around windows, doors, and rooflines to prevent leaks at weak points.
✔ Drainable WRB or Rain Screen System – Creates an air gap for drainage and airflow, preventing moisture buildup.

Cost Comparison: Cheap vs. Proper House Wrap

 

House Wrap TypeCost per Square FootLifespanPerformanceCheap Woven Wrap$0.10 - $0.255-10 yearsPoor - absorbs water, breaks down easilyHigh-Quality WRB$0.40 - $0.8030+ yearsExcellent - repels water, durable, mold-resistantZIP System Sheathing$1.50 - $2.0030+ yearsBest - integrated air & moisture barrier

 

💰 Saving a few hundred dollars on cheap house wrap can cost homeowners thousands in repairs within just a few years. Investing in a proper WRB pays off in long-term durability and protection.

How to Ensure Your Home Has Proper House Wrap

If you’re building a home or buying a newly built house, take these steps to avoid future moisture problems:

🔍 Ask your builder what type of house wrap they use – If it’s a cheap woven wrap, request a better alternative.
📷 Request photos of the installation – Proper house wrap should be taped at seams and properly overlapped.
🛠 Hire a contractor who does it right – At K&K Designer Builds, we ensure every home is built with the best WRB system for long-term durability.

K&K Designer Builds: We Build It Right

We refuse to cut corners when it comes to moisture protection and long-term quality. That’s why we use high-performance house wrap and proper installation techniques on every project.

Looking for a Contractor Who Won’t Cut Corners?

Contact K&K Designer Builds today for a consultation and estimate. We serve Blair County, State College, and surrounding PA areas and ensure every home is built to last—mold-free and structurally sound.

📍 Serving Blair County, State College, and more
📞 (814)515-5147
💻 Kkdesignerbuilds.com

Don’t let poor house wrap lead to major home issues—build with protection from the start!