Comparing Typar and Tyvek for Waterproofing Plywood Before Vinyl Siding Installation
Both Typar and Tyvek are commonly used house wrap materials designed to provide water-resistance, but they have distinct differences that might influence your choice for waterproofing plywood before applying vinyl siding. Let's delve into the details that can help you make an informed decision.
Typar
Breathability
Typar is renowned for its high breathability, allowing moisture vapor to escape while preventing water from entering. This feature helps reduce the risk of mold and rot in the plywood, making it an excellent choice for maintaining the integrity of your building envelope.
Durability
Typar is generally considered more durable and resistant to tearing, especially in areas with higher wind exposure. This makes it a preferred choice for contractors who need a material that can withstand harsh weather conditions without compromising performance.
UV Resistance
Typar has excellent UV resistance, allowing it to withstand exposure to sunlight before siding is installed. This factor is crucial as it ensures the longevity and effectiveness of the house wrap in outdoor conditions.
Tyvek
Moisture Management
Tyvek offers excellent moisture management. It effectively keeps water out while allowing moisture vapor to escape, making it suitable for ensuring the plywood remains dry and resilient throughout the life of the building.
Lightweight and Easy to Install
One of Tyvek's most significant advantages is its lightweight nature and ease of installation. It is easier to handle and install, which can significantly reduce labor costs and increase efficiency on the job site.
Cost
Tyvek is typically less expensive than Typar, which might be a substantial consideration for large-scale projects. Contractors looking for a cost-effective solution may opt for Tyvek over Typar.
Conclusion
The choice between Typar and Tyvek largely depends on your specific project requirements. If durability and UV resistance are your top priorities, Typar may be the better choice. However, if cost and ease of installation are more critical factors, Tyvek could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, both materials will provide a good moisture barrier when installed correctly, so your selection will need to be based on specific project conditions and preferences.
Personal Experience and Opinion
Based on my extensive experience in the industry, I can personally attest to the effectiveness of Tyvek for waterproofing plywood. Neither Typar nor Tyvek is truly waterproof; they are both vapor barriers that are moisture-resistant. Their primary purpose is to stop air infiltration. However, water will inevitably accumulate in the wall cavity at some point due to exterior leaks or condensation from temperature differences between the interior and exterior air.
Tyvek's unique advantage lies in its ability to allow moisture vapor to pass through, ensuring that any water within the wall cavity can eventually evaporate. This feature helps prevent the rotting of wood members and the attraction of termites. While neither product is waterproof, Tyvek's permeability can be a significant benefit in maintaining the integrity of the plywood and the overall structure.
As a personal preference, I recommend using Tyvek. Coating the plywood with a waterproofing agent is an option, but it can be an additional step and cost. Pressure-treated (PT) plywood is another effective alternative, as it resists both water-induced rot and termites. However, I still applied Tyvek over PT plywood and wrapped all openings and penetrations with peel-and-stick membrane to ensure comprehensive protection.