Is housewrap required by code?

Yes. The IRC requires a water-resistive barrier (WRB) on all exterior walls behind siding. Housewrap, building paper, or self-adhered membranes all qualify.

Can I use felt paper instead of housewrap?

Yes, #15 building paper (felt) is still code-compliant. However, synthetic housewraps outperform felt in most metrics: strength, vapor permeability, and UV resistance.

Housewrap Calculator

Calculate rolls of Tyvek or housewrap needed for your exterior wall area.

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Enter Your Measurements

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How to Use This Calculator

1Calculate total exterior wall area (perimeter × height).
2Enter roll coverage (standard Tyvek HomeWrap = 1000 sq ft/roll).
3Click Calculate.

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About This Material

Housewrap (DuPont Tyvek or similar) is a weather-resistant barrier (WRB) that goes over wall sheathing before siding. It blocks bulk water while allowing vapor to escape, preventing mold and rot.

Installation Tips

•Start at the bottom, working upward. Overlap horizontal seams 6" minimum.
•Tape all seams, penetrations, and window openings with compatible flashing tape.
•Install windows and doors before cutting holes in housewrap.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not taping seams — most air infiltration occurs at seams and penetrations.
Installing upside down — Tyvek is directional.
Leaving housewrap exposed to UV for more than 90 days (degrades performance).