What house wrap means
House wrap is the sheet stapled over wall sheathing under the siding. It stops liquid water that gets behind the siding but lets water vapor out.
Also called water-resistive barrier, WRB, weather barrier.
Where it matters on a siding job
Laps run like shingles, upper over lower, and the wrap ties into window and door flashing. Torn or backward lapped wrap is a common inspection fail. On a residing job, replacing it is part of the price, not an extra.
What the model code says
- The barrier must be continuous to the top of walls and sealed at penetrations. (IRC 2021, Chapter 7)
Check which code edition your building department enforces for house wrap before you quote.
What it costs
The siding replacement cost guide has the typical job at $11,500 and the usual range at $5,550 to $17,500. The guide shows its sources and what moves the price. The siding cost calculator prices a job line by line.
Work it out
- Free calculator: Siding cost calculator
- Cost guide: Siding replacement cost
- Tools, templates and guides: Free siding resources
Sources: 2021 International Residential Code, Chapter 7, Wall Covering (ICC). Checked October 9, 2026.