I'm building an addition myself except for the roof framing. However, the carpenter I had a contract with, and contrary to the agreement, can't come for another two months! Finding a replacement on short notice is next to impossible. Moreover, the framing and plywood sheathing on the walls were soaked during and after Isabel and it finally dried out so I really want to get the Tyvek on and prevent the wood from getting wet again. The question is: Can I install the Tyvek before the roof framing and roof? I can stretch a tarp on top of the second floor joists to keep precipitation out and I can also install the windows to close-off the sides. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!!
I would not recommend installing the windows until the roof is dried in. Just run the Tyvek across the window openings for now and cut them out later.
Glenn www.consultationdirect.com
Framing lumber and structural sheathing (plywood/OSB) are highly resistant to the effects of weather. (It sits outdoors in the lumber yard for months before arriving on the job site.) Tyvec on the other hand degrades under prolonged untraviolet exposure and is easily wind damaged. Don't put in the windows. If the sub floor is wood, as opposed to concrete, drill holes to let the water escape rather than puddling.
Thank you for the replies, the input was helpful. I understand the drawback with Tyvek exposure and hope it will not be exposed more than a few weeks. Re: the windows: those will not be installed until the roof and in the interim the openings will be covered with the Tyvek. My second child is due soon so I'm under a deadline to finish the project. Again, thanks to all for the input.