Tyvek vs Blueskin: which belongs on your wall?
Tyvek HomeWrap vs Blueskin VP100 for GTA new homes: vapour permeability, detailing, labour and where we use each. 905-251-0101
Updated October 2026 · By GTA Tarping INC, Newmarket
What each product is
- Tyvek HomeWrap (DuPont): a spun-bonded house wrap, fastened with cap fasteners and taped at seams. It's a water-resistive barrier and air barrier.
- Blueskin VP100 (Henry): a self-adhered membrane that bonds to the substrate. Henry markets it as a vapour-permeable water-resistive air barrier. Other Blueskin products have different properties.
Vapour permeability and drying
Both Tyvek HomeWrap and Blueskin VP100 are vapour-permeable, so they let moisture in the wall dry outward. Neither is a vapour barrier. That matters: putting a vapour-impermeable layer on the outside of a wall that needs to dry outward can trap moisture. Always follow the wall assembly your designer has specified.
Detailing: windows, corners, penetrations
Tyvek relies on correct laps, tape and flashing at openings. Blueskin sticks directly to the substrate, which makes it better at sealing irregular shapes, inside corners and transitions between materials. That's why Blueskin is often used at openings even on walls wrapped with Tyvek.
Labour and cost
Tyvek usually goes on faster over large, simple walls. Blueskin takes more prep (clean, dry substrate, primer where required, temperature limits) and more labour per square foot, but it can save time on details that would otherwise need extra taping and flashing. Your quote reflects the mix on your drawings.
When we use both
The common combination on GTA production homes is Tyvek on the walls with Blueskin at windows, doors, corners and transitions. Full-wall Blueskin is used where the designer specifies it, often for air-tightness targets or complex elevations.
FAQ
Is Tyvek a vapour barrier?
No. Tyvek HomeWrap is vapour-permeable.
Is Blueskin a vapour barrier?
Blueskin VP100 is vapour-permeable. Some other Blueskin products are not, so check the product on your drawings.
Can I use both on the same house?
Yes, and it's common: Tyvek on the field of the wall and Blueskin at openings and transitions.
See Tyvek and Blueskin building envelope, Tyvek house wrap installation and Blueskin air barrier installation. Related guide: Brick ties under the 2024 OBC. Get a quote