Tyvek
Tyvek is the brand name of a synthetic paper made from spun fibers of polyethylene. Water resistant and tearproof, it is the perfect ultralight layer between a home's framing or sheathing and virtually any type of exterior cladding (siding, fiber cement panels, shingles, brick, stucco, stone or sheet metal). Nicknamed "housewrap," Tyvek can increase a home's energy efficiency by blocking wind and water.
An alternative to housewrap is a product called Zip board. Coastal areas suffer from high winds that can blow off the siding — and the Tyvek along with it. Zip board works as sheathing and won't blow off. Like Tyvek, it is engineered to allow moisture vapor to travel through, allowing walls to breathe and dry out.
Because it is waterproof yet breathable, Tyvek also makes great car, bike or grill covers. It is used for protective clothing, industrial packaging, graphic applications, medical fabrics and even clever pendant lights like this one.
Sealing the envelope of a home during construction is a critical step in creating energy efficiency. Tyvek can boost heating and cooling systems by blocking drafts. Tyvek also eliminates mold by shielding the home from water penetration while allowing moisture vapor to escape.
Q