My house is going up as we speak and I have a question regarding the installation of Insulated Sheathing (1/2 Tuff R) in South Texas. The builder is hanging the sheets using galvanized roofing nails (Dow requires a 25mm washer) directly to the studs resulting in numerous punctures and dimple breaks in the foil surface. The architect is telling me that ALL punctures, breaks, tears, seams need to be taped with the aluminum tape (duct tape). So far, only the seams are being taped. The exterior will be covered primarily with limestone and stucco on parts of the second floor and back of the house.
With all the excitement over toxic mold and moisture penetration, what is the industry standard regarding the insulation of insulated board? Do all punctures and seams need to be taped and what should I expect to see regarding window installation? It seems to me that this Tuff R is the front line to prevent moisture penetration.
A third party is telling me the builder proclaims that the walls need to breathe and all the punctures are satisfactory. What gives?
Replies
What's the point of using an expensive product like that if the installer won't follow the instructions? How many breathing holes are needed? Are the accidental punctures alone going to be sufficient, or will it need some more whacking at it to open up the sinuses? Joe H