Innovative Products: ZIP System R-Sheathing

First introduced in 2006, ZIP System R-Sheathing was noticed right away by energy-conscious builders and remodelers. Used with ZIP’s flashing tape, the panels provide continuous insulation on a struc-ture’s exterior, preventing thermal bridging. They’re easy to install and they eliminate the need for products such as housewrap, foam sheathing, and metal bracing. 

The ZIP panels include a layer of engineered wood to brace the walls and a built-in water resistive barrier. Originally available in R-3, R-6, and R-12 thicknesses, Huber Engineered Woods (owner of ZIP System) expanded the line to include R-9 late last year. The R-9 option was specifically designed to help meet continuous insulation requirements outlined in the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code. 

“We’re big believers in putting the thermal control layer on the outside of your framing,” says Ben Bogie (right), owner of Built to Last Design & Build, in New Milford, Conn. He recently tried ZIP’s R-12 sheathing for the first time on the 2017 Model ReModel, an ongoing project profiled by Professional Remodeler, and says that while it initially took some time to adjust to the R-12 panels’ extra thickness, it turned out to be worth the effort. “A lot of your exterior fasteners have to be bumped up in length to accommodate for it,” Bogie says, “but ... it removes a tremendous amount of labor from the process.”