ZIP System Sheathing On Ranch Style Home

If you haven’t seen a house built with the ZIP system then you might wonder what on earth we’ve built this house with. The green and orange colors certainly stand out at first sight.

As I continue to write about the Total House Construction Series – Foundation to Finish I’ve been spending quite a bit of time on the ZIP System Sheathing product. So far I’m very impressed with this new technology. Building science continues to develop really great products that make our homes safer, more durable and greener.

Once the walls and roof are sheathed with the ZIP system all of the joints must be taped. We are following the manufacturers recommended installation guidelines for lap siding. As you can see in the photo we’re just starting to tape the joints. Both the walls and roof will get taped at each joint between panels.

The tape is really easy to install. ZIP system has a special tape dispenser “gun” similar to one you would use for packing tape. By taping all of the joint and sealing around windows and doors the air infiltration into the new home should be drastically reduced. Obviously this will help save energy and make the home very comfortable.

This house is being tested for an Energy Star rated home. The ZIP system is certainly an integral part in the final rating of this home when we perform the blower door test. The other big benefit with the ZIP system is how quickly we’ll have the building weather tight for other trades. Once we apply the tape to the joints we will have a dry building for the plumbers and electricians to work in.

Also check out my other post, ZIP System Sheathing.