The Pros and Cons of Zip System Sheathing
All new outdoor structures require some form of water-resistant barrier between the building’s inside and regular and severe weather. Although the use of building wraps has been around for well over a century, their construction hasn’t always been as weather-resistant as today’s available options.
The need to create a strong envelope on new buildings before any moisture sets in has led to innovative sheathing solutions such as the Zip System. This system allows the home builder to quickly seal your building envelope to protect the structure’s integrity and appearance.
What Is Zip System Sheathing?
Zip System sheathing was first introduced in 2008 by Huber Engineered Woods. Since then, it has been widely adopted in many parts of North America as an alternative to plywood and other sheathing systems.
The Zip System uses all-in-one panels for sheathing that, when adhered together correctly—using tape or liquid sealants—create a highly rated R-value barrier that protects your home. Layered with foam insulation, these panels provide thermal, air, and water resistance all in one application.
Top-quality home builders use this integrated system to provide your home with the insulation and weather protection it requires without the need for additional barriers
The Pros of the Zip System Sheathing in New Home Construction
The Zip System sheathing panels are available in several insulation thickness options. The manufacturer also makes high-quality sealing tape, available in a stretch version for wall penetrations, corners, and window pan flashing.
Like most materials, there are several pros and a few cons to working with this material. Let’s see what some of these are.
Consolidated Workflow Saves Money
This system is engineered with the water-resistant barrier layered onto the sheathing, allowing builders to consolidate their workflow by eliminating the extra step of adding a separate layer of asphalt felt or any other house wrap. This feature helps save home builders significant amounts of time, saving you money through their efficiency
Durable Weather Barrier
The engineered wood exterior of Zip System sheathing panels works together with the added foam insulation to create a durable building structure. This solid framework adds additional strength to your home, making it sturdy enough to withstand extreme weather for decades to come.
The manufacturer of Zip System sheathing also has roof decking options available. When your contractor integrates these with the wall panels, they can create a complete weather barrier.
Energy-Efficient
Thanks to the high R-value rating that the Zip System plus insulation provides through a continuous air barrier, excess air and heat are prevented from escaping your home. Consequently, your home will use less energy to stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Your energy-efficient home will decrease your utility bills and contribute to the well-being of the environment at the same time. This is the perfect system to utilize when building an airtight net-zero luxury home
Sustainable Design
The Zip System panels are manufactured using low-emitting materials without any added urea-formaldehyde. The wood used in their construction is harvested, manufactured, transported, and distributed using sustainable practices. The panels are built using renewable forest resources and U.S.-based materials.
The Cons of the Zip System Sheathing in New Home Construction
Higher Initial Investment
While the initial financial outlay for Zip System sheathing can be higher than other house wrapping systems, the homeowner must keep in mind the short- and long-term savings they will earn investing in this system. For instance, the integrated nature of the Zip System sheathing means you won’t have to invest in additional layers of barrier wraps that other systems require. Additionally, you will undoubtedly see savings on your utility bills.
Is It Water-Resistant?
Because the sheathing used in the Zip System has the water barrier applied to the surface, some contractors have concerns that every nail and fastener that creates a panel hole will make a potential source of water or air leakage.
Expert installation using one or both specialty tape and liquid-applied sealants will eliminate these concerns. In particular, liquid sealant—or flashing—spread with a trowel provides an almost foolproof solution for these concerns. It is also incredibly effective in waterproofing when applied to vulnerable transitions such as window pans and foundation joints.
While there are typically pros and cons to any construction method, the Zip System sheathing method’s pros outweigh the cons. Having a good understanding of any limitations and the numerous benefits of this system will allow you to choose a design in which you feel confident.
To help you make this and other critical decisions about your new high-end home construction, GenCorp Homes Inc. is ready to help. Get the premium, custom luxury home of your dreams by contacting our team of industry-leading professionals today. We guarantee your project will run smoothly, proceed on time, and be stress-free.
