Is housewrap needed with foam insulation?
Marty writes from Loves Park, Illinois: “My builder is claiming B.I.B. is good enough for the exterior walls (r15 total he claims). It’s a 2×4 stud wall with 7/16 osb and housewrap. I’m thinking 1/2″ foam over the osb will definitely be worth the expense. Will standard window jambs work over this wall (with 1/2″ foam) and would the housewrap still be needed and would it go over the foam or between the foam and osb and do you still tape the seams of the foam? The osb is used for strength in this windy area.” Answer: If you use foam and tape the seams, it qualifies as a weather resistant barrier. Therefore, you will not need housewrap. You will have to go to the manufacturer of your windows to find out about the jamb size availability.
