House Wrap fabric envelope re-cladding system, shown before and after installation.
House Wrap radically transforms existing buildings with minimal materials.
According to planning expert Arthur C. Nelson, over half of new U.S. building construction expected to occur by 2040 will consist of retrofits to existing structures. Considering the relatively short life span and aesthetic limitations of most spec-built single family homes, the anticipated construction upgrades for this building type will be significant.
House Wrap is an approach to re-cladding technically-, environmentally-, and aesthetically-obsolete residential structures with high-performance architectural textiles. First, new envelope geometry is developed for the building that takes into account solar orientation, climate, and the changing functional needs of the client. Exterior-grade, low-albedo textiles are precut to specification and installed utilizing a nimble and noninvasive anchoring system.
The result is a dramatic transformation in the aesthetic appearance of a building, and the inclusion of additional insulation also allows for a significant reduction in energy consumption. Textiles may be specified in a variety of colors and opacities, and may be printed with custom graphic patterns. If required, the future replacement of textile panels may be achieved with minimal expense and effort. Compared with alternative methods to achieve similar transformations in appearance and performance, House Wrap puts minimal resources to maximum use.
Plan and elevation drawings of a typical House Wrap installation.
Worm’s eye view showing the House Wrap envelope as an isolated system.
The House Wrap system allows for generous formal adjustments at minimal expense.
Before and after images of the House Wrap installation, showing the capacity to greatly increase unconditioned floor area.