Rain Screen

Rain Sreen (Rear Ventilated) Façade System

Following is a brief summary of the advantages to utilizing the rain screen (rear ventilated) system of installation.

1. Deflection of rain water and moisture penetration: the design principle deflects almost all rain water. Any minimal penetration through joints and residual humidity is eliminated by the air circulation and open cavity. Because the continuous air circulation quickly evaporates any water in the cavity space, mold and mildew cannot occur.
2. Enhanced thermal insulation- Ventilated façades allow for structural separation of the different functional layers (cladding, thermal insulation, and support structure). The ventilated cavity prevents heat accumulation during the summer. The outer cladding, (if the façade chosen reflects solar radiation), combined with the constant air circulation reduces the amount of heat that is absorbed by the building. During cold weather the ventilated cavity allows for enhancement of the insulation. The ventilated layer has a storage effect that diminished temperature changes, thereby maintaining a more constant indoor temperature.
3. Sound proofing- Because of the structure of separated layers, the ventilated façade absorbs noise. Depending upon the type of materials used for the structural support wall and the exterior façade, the soundproofing can be improved by at least 10 dB.
4. Protection of the support walls- The façade and ventilation system “shields” the support wall, thus improving the life span of the structural support wall.
5. Less maintenance required
   1. The system is an open joint system, therefore caulking/sealing of joints will not have to be maintained
   2. Problems with cracking, spalling, water penetration/damage are eliminated