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

When tin is applied to roofs, resin-sized building paper should first be laid on the roof plank, and the sheets of tin should be painted on the lower side before being laid.

From Scientific American Supplement, No. 648, June 2, 1888. by Various

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

From Concrete Construction Methods and Costs by Gillette, Halbert Powers

It burned steadily, disclosing a little, low room, papered with heavy building paper.

From The Bail Jumper by Stead, Robert J. C.

Whatever is used, for protection against winter winds, the boarding ought to be sheathed either with building paper or a quilting.

From If You're Going to Live in the Country by Lieberman, Frank

For rabbits I use tin from the roofs of burned buildings or building paper.

From The Apple by Various