Rain Screen Technology

Rain screen wall construction involves an exterior skin that acts as a moisture repellent and a backup wall that is a continuous air barrier seal and never exposed to the elements. Insulation is located between the air barrier seal on the backup wall and the exterior skin/screen.  Air is permitted to circulate within the wall cavity which keeps the insulation dry and allows the moisture to evaporate, thus eliminating condensation problems and preventing the potential buildup of mold.
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Traditional, less technical systems-thinking in design assumed that an exterior single seal would protect the interior environment of a building. Today, building forensics have taught us that moisture-laden air is the major culprit of exterior building envelope failure.

Interested in learning more about rain screen technology? Ask us about out AIA accredited Build Envelope Technology presentation. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rain screen a product?
No, it is a method of wall assembly that moves the dew point outside the air barrier seal into a ventilated, pressure-equalized space. This allows the condensation that results from the dew point to evaporate, leaving the insulation dry and free from trapped moisture (mold).
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Is it more expensive?
No, the rain screen wall utilizes the same components of the conventional wall, it simply positions them differently. Instead of putting the insulation inside the stud wall, rain screen systems place the insulation outboard of the air barrier seal.  This moves the dew point and resulting line of condensation outside the interior building environment.

Do rain screen systems help with sustainability?
Yes. Rain screen walls not only provide a healthier, more efficient wall, but they also allow you to select from a vast array of products that feature high levels of post-consumer recycled content. 

Why is rain screen beneficial?
There are a variety of advantages to rain screen assemblies.  First, the building becomes more efficient since the insulation can be applied in an uninterrupted manner. This minimizes thermal conductivity, limits heat transfer, and reduces ‘cold spots’ on the wall.  In the case of steel stud backup, the absence of insulation in the stud cavity creates a clear space for electrical, security and technology rough-in.  

Rain screen walls require far less maintenance because the cladding system (which can be any product) is not sealed. The joints are left open, which facilitates the circulation of air behind the exterior cladding.  This free flow of air creates pressure equalization and limits the potential effects of negative pressure across the system.  The open joints require no sealants (historically the weakest link in an exterior wall assembly),  lessening the maintenance required and keeping the face of the cladding clean. Rain screen systems also accelerate enclosure, allowing interior trades to start work earlier and compress overall project schedules. 

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