Zip-R sheathing in the Pacific Northwest
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I have read many concerns about Zip-R sheathing having the insulation on the “wrong” side of the sheathing.
Is this a concern in a more temperate 4c climate zone? I’m not sure of the cost of zip-R, but to get everything done at once seems pretty cool.
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Replies
Joe,
Was long as y0u provide a rain-screen cavity to allow the outside of the Zip-R to dry it will be fine. Depending on where in the PNW you are it may not meet seismic requirements for shear though.
Hi Joe -
Ideally, yes, you want the structural sheathing warmed by the exterior insulation. BUT, I believe that the combined, continuous, and rigid water and air barrier the ZIP provides is well worth the ZIP overall configuration.
Peter,
So you would recommend this system?
I'm not Peter, but I'm currently building my own house with Zip R-9. As far as I'm concerned, this is default sheathing I'll use for other houses I'll be building.
The R-9 version works nicely with 2x lumber ripped to block out around window openings, since the insulation is also 1.5".
The labor savings vs. continuous exterior foam board is considerable.