building paper

American  

noun

1. heavy paper used especially in the construction of frame buildings to block drafts, for insulation, etc.

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building paper British  

noun

1. any of various types of heavy-duty paper that usually consist of bitumen reinforced with fibre sandwiched between two sheets of kraft paper: used in damp-proofing or as insulation between the soil and a road surface

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Etymology

Origin of building paper

An Americanism dating back to 1870–75

Example Sentences

The room had been lined with patches of building paper, some red, some blue, and finished out with old newspapers.

From Land of the Burnt Thigh by Voorhies, Stephen J.

In place of lath and plastered walls, thick building paper formed the interior covering, leaving a space between the iron outside and the paper within.

From An I.D.B. in South Africa by Vescelius-Sheldon, Louise

The lagging was then covered with building paper waterproofed with paraffine.

From Concrete Construction Methods and Costs by Gillette, Halbert Powers

Build a frame, then fit them in, standing them on end, and line with building paper, and perhaps boards.

From Buffalo Roost by Cheley, F. H.

The frame was light, and the cabin was built with double boards, with building paper between, to keep out the cold wintry winds.

From The River Prophet by Coleman, Ralph P. (Ralph Pallen)