Is Flex Wrap really better than Vycor?
I’m gettng ready to install 9 new Andersens and am considering making the leap from Vycor to Tyvek’s Flex Wap for the pans. I’ve always been pleased with the Vycor so I wonder if the Flex Wrap is worth it?
Also, I’ve always wrapped the sides and tops of the rough openings with felt or Vycor, but am starting to wonder if it isn’t overkill since the nailing fins are also sealed with vycor. I know that many here (including myself) always dress the entire rough opening before installing windows, but now that we have good membranes to flash the fins, do you think it’s really necessary?
Just wondering…
Replies
I use the 7" Flexwrap in 2x6 walls and think it's worth it. I also put a piece of 1/2" x 6 cedar bevel on the rough sill to provide slope to the outside. You can do a half-decent sill with Vycor, but to really get a seal at the corners you have to cut very carefully and stretch it just right, to get a tiny overlap and seal. With Flexwrap you can easily pull the entire membrane around the corner.
Starting from the beginning, I wrap the opening with the felt (usually) or wrap (rarely) first, folding it in over the sides. Then the Flexwrap pan, then the window, the strip the sides and top with Vycor.
EDIT: I meant 9" Flexwrap above, the 7 is for 2x4 walls.
Edited 8/27/2007 9:09 pm by davidmeiland
"I also put a piece of 1/2" x 6 cedar bevel on the rough sill to provide slope to the outside."That's a nice idea. You have to love the simple and cheap things people come up with. Thanks.
I think that idea belongs to Carl Hagstrom, who I've seen do a couple of window flashing/install demos at JLC Live. The chance that I come up with something like that is about zero.
Well you at least passed it on. That counts.
We use Flex Wrap for doors but not for windows (all of our windows are vinyl).
I can get vycor for about $10/100LF and flex wrap is about $150/75LF. I don't know why it's so expensive, but it's worth it for a door.
Just my opinion.
Jon Blakemore
RappahannockINC.com Fredericksburg, VA