Building Science-to-Sales Translator
Continuous/Sealed Weather Resistant Barrier = Wall Water Barrier
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Technical Description
A wall water barrier blocks the penetration of moisture that gets past the siding and provides a path for it to safely drain down and away from the wall. The water-resistant surface could be house wrap that is lapped shingle style, water-resistant rigid foam insulation that is taped or sealed at all seams, or a wet-applied moisture-resistant coating. The water barrier must be carefully sealed and flashed at all exterior wall openings and penetrations (e.g., windows, doors, water spigots, exhaust vent outlets, HVAC condensate lines, light fixtures, and receptacles), and all wall intersections (e.g., roofs, foundations, and other transitions).