Q&A for How to Install Tyvek

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What should I use to attach the Tyvek?

Ryaan Tuttle
Home Improvement Specialist
Ryaan Tuttle is a Home Improvement Specialist and the CEO of Best Handyman, Inc. in Boston, Massachusetts. With over 17 years of experience, he specializes in building home service businesses, focusing on creating scalable and efficient brands. With the help of his global team, the companies have achieved over 10+ million in sales and received recognition through magazine features, and enjoy partnerships with wikiHow and Jobber field service software. Boston Magazine and LocalBest.com have named Best Handyman Boston the Best Handyman in Boston. Ryaan holds Construction Supervisor and Home Improvement Contractor Licenses.

Ryaan Tuttle

Home Improvement Specialist

Expert Answer

You can use a staple gun, or they make these things called cap nailers that you can use. They shoot out a small nail with an orange cap on the end that helps hold the ties back on the plywood.

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Question

Can I install Tyvek with the letters upside down?

Community Answer

Yes, as long as the letters face out. The membrane is designed to be slightly breathable in one direction.

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Question

Is there a maximum horizontal overlap allowed for tyvek drainwrap?

Community Answer

No, but the more overlap, the more wasted material there is. Also, try not to overlap other fasteners that would lead to double-fastening. Put both layers up, and then fasten through both.

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Question

I have an older home where we stripped off the old clapboard. We want to install Tyvek wrap before putting new clapboard up. There is black tar paper over the barnboard; do we need to strip that off before applying the Tyvek?

Community Answer

You should remove the tar paper before you install the Tyvek on your home.

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Question

How do I go about installing Tyvek around the boxes protruding from the wall?

Community Answer

Caulk around the boxes and cut the Tyvek to accommodate them. For larger boxes it can be easier to piece the Tyvek in by stopping it at either side and using a pieces on the top and bottom, just make sure to keep the material running in the right direction. In both cases, tape the Tyvek to the box.

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Question

Is Tyvek breathable and effective?

Community Answer

Not really. They just say that to make you buy it. I bought it and tested it. It falls apart.

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