Is a self-adhered wrb as good of an exterior air barrier as taped rigid foam?
MikeonLI
| Posted in General Questions on
Homeowner Long Island ny. I know exterior insulation adds r value and prevents thermal bridging, but strictly from an air sealing standpoint is a self adhered wrb as effective as taped foam board on the exterior? I feel the taped foam board would do a better job air sealing. Thanks!
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Replies
Mike,
I think this is one of those is roast chicken better the lasagna questions with no clear answer. Both can work well, the devil is in the details. My own preference would be to use the WRB, which is easier to detail at the perimeter and penetrations.
My personal opinion is that foam is not stable and will shrink over time I refused to count on it as a long-term barrier for water or air.
My opinion the regular Zip sheeting is worth the extra cost Zip +R not so much.
Walta