Schedule Appointment
Austin Pro Calender Icon
Appointment
phone icon
Call Us
Austin Pro Siding, Windows, Roofing, Patio Covers Logo

House Wrap FAQ: What You Need to Know

By
austin pro
Written by Austin Pro Management
July 22, 2024

House wrap is a fabric, paper or board material that envelops the exterior sheathing of house walls. It acts as an additional form of insulation to help increase the energy efficiency of a home. In this article, one of the leading siding and window installers in the local area discusses the basic things you need to know about house wrap.

Why Do You Need House Wrap?

House wrap is a type of water-resistive barrier or WRB. Its main purpose is to prevent the entry of moisture into the wall cavity from the outside. Since most siding materials are not completely effective at repelling rainwater, house wrap is there to shed the water when it gets behind the siding. House wrap does not exactly serve as an air barrier to hamper chilly air. Only a few special types of WRBs are designed to perform this function, and they must be installed skillfully to be reliable.

What Are the Different Types of House Wrap?

According to professional roofers, the original WRB was an asphalt-reinforced felt paper, similar to the material usually used as an underlayment under roof shingles. Here are some other types:

  • Grade D building paper is made of asphalt-impregnated kraft paper. It is commonly used under stucco siding.
  • Polyolefin fabric is made of woven polyethylene or polypropylene fibers.
  • WRB sheathing panels are made of oriented strandboard (OSB) with special coatings.

How Long Will House Wrap Last?

House wrap will last for the life of the home since it is installed under the exterior siding. Unless there is a fire or other types of devastating structural damage, there is almost never any need to replace house wrap.

Is House Wrap Waterproof?

It is not 100% waterproof. If house wrap is directly exposed to water or moisture for extended periods of time, that water can penetrate through. However, since it is located underneath the siding of a home, it won’t likely be exposed to water for long periods of time.

Austin Pro Siding, Windows & Roofing is one of the premier siding and window replacement contractors in Texas. We are committed to providing industry-leading products and services to ensure a comfortable living space for our customers. Call us today at (512) 550-0000 or fill out our contact form to set up an appointment.

The Timeless Appeal of Board and Batten Siding: Part 2
February 28, 2026
The Timeless Appeal of Board and Batten Siding: Part 2

We dive deeper into design ideas and material options for achieving the perfect board and batten look.

Why Your Garage Door Suddenly Gets Loud and Jams After an Austin Storm (And What to Fix Before It Fails)
July 14, 2026
Why Your Garage Door Suddenly Gets Loud and Jams After an Austin Storm (And What to Fix Before It Fails)

Austin's severe thunderstorms put unique stress on garage doors — triggering a chain of failures that can leave your door grinding, jamming, or completely stuck. This guide breaks down the 7 most common post-storm garage door problems, what you can safely fix yourself, and when it's time to call a licensed technician before a small issue becomes a costly emergency.

The Financials of Outdoor Comfort: Analyzing Covered Patio Costs
February 28, 2026
The Financials of Outdoor Comfort: Analyzing Covered Patio Costs

Planning a patio? We break down the costs and ROI of adding a covered outdoor living space.

The Painting Mistake That Peels Off Half of Buda's Homes Within Two Summers
July 14, 2026
The Painting Mistake That Peels Off Half of Buda's Homes Within Two Summers

Fresh exterior paint in Buda, Kyle, and Dripping Springs often starts peeling before the second summer is over — and it's almost never the paint's fault. Surface temperature during application, bad prep, and Central Texas humidity swings are the real culprits. Here's exactly what goes wrong and how to stop it.

Which Factors Influence the Cost of Window Replacement?
February 28, 2026
Which Factors Influence the Cost of Window Replacement?

Size, style, or glass? We break down the biggest factors that influence your window quote.

Hidden Factors That Can Affect Your Roof Replacement Cost
February 28, 2026
Hidden Factors That Can Affect Your Roof Replacement Cost

Avoid budget surprises. We reveal the hidden factors, such as decking damage and disposal fees, that can impact the final cost of a new roof.

Roof Replacement: When Should You Get It Done
February 28, 2026
Roof Replacement: When Should You Get It Done

Timing is everything. Learn the optimal time of year and conditions for roof replacement.

Is a Metal Roof Actually Worth It in Austin Now? The 2026 Break-Even Math on Heat, Insurance, and the New Tax Law
July 14, 2026
Is a Metal Roof Actually Worth It in Austin Now? The 2026 Break-Even Math on Heat, Insurance, and the New Tax Law

A standing seam metal roof in Austin costs roughly double a shingle roof — but in 2026, rising cooling bills, tightening insurance rules, and the expanded homestead exemption are quietly changing the calculus. Here's the honest break-even math for Austin homeowners who plan to stay put.