Why Wall Wraps Matter in Your Kit Home Build
Transcript
Jackson Yin: Okay, wall wrapping paper – just a question or comment I have. Does anyone know what that’s for? Why would you have wall wrapping or wall wraps today?
Charles Christodoulou: Is that to prevent condensation?
Jackson Yin: Yeah, okay – sounds good. Maybe we’ll get our builder friends here to comment on wall wraps. Maybe Charlie or Anthony – any thoughts? Can we skip that?
Jackson Yin: Of course not.
Antonie Marian: It’s a moisture barrier, yeah.
Mark Hayward: Moisture control.
Wall wraps play a critical role in every kit home build. They are essential for controlling moisture and preventing condensation from forming within wall cavities. Without them, moisture could compromise the structural integrity and indoor comfort of your home.
To function properly, wall-wrap products must be installed with at least a 100 mm overlap around joints. Builders then seal these joints using approved adhesive tape, which creates a continuous barrier across the external wall surface.
How Wall Wraps Work with Insulation
Wall wraps are most effective when paired with compatible insulation materials. Here’s how they can work together:
- Insulation batts should fit snugly between wall studs. This avoids compression and air gaps, ensuring thermal performance aligns with the wall frame thickness.
- Rigid foam boards may be added between the brick veneer and the wall frame. These improve thermal resistance by reducing heat transfer across structural components.
- In cooler climates, some wall systems include a foil face on the interior. This can act as a radiant barrier, but it typically replaces – not complements – bulk batts in the wall frame.
For a deeper dive into insulation types, see our guide on Wall Insulation Types
Are Wall Wraps Optional?
No, wall wraps are not optional. Skipping them can lead to moisture-related problems and long-term damage. Their use helps maintain both the structure and energy efficiency of your home.