From designing fastening systems to shaping the future of façade performance, Rob Stricek has built a career at the intersection of engineering precision and architectural ambition. As Technical Manager at Etex Exteriors, US/CAN, Rob plays a key role in supporting architects and installers as they bring designs to life using EQUITONE’s hi-strength cement rainscreen panels. In this conversation, he shares how thoughtful engineering influences everything from thermal efficiency to fire safety—and why collaboration is essential in creating façades that are beautiful and built to last.
Can you share a bit about your background in engineering and what led you to your role at EQUITONE?
I have a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Drexel University. It was from Drexel that I gained my first professional work experience at SFS Group USA through the co-op program. SFS Group USA is a provider of fastening solutions for a variety of industries, including construction. Originally, I was involved in designing fasteners for specific building applications and then moved into their flat roof division where I helped develop a more ergonomic induction welding tool for single ply roof membrane installation. Before I left SFS Group USA, I was the technical manager for their thermally broken subframe system where I aided architects in design questions, providing estimating to installers, lead testing and certification projects, and worked with 3rd party engineering firms. This experience was a natural segue into what I do today at Etex.
What excites you most about working with EQUITONE?
Working in architecture is a humbling experience. The work we do and the materials we provide help shape a building’s identity, which in turn defines the interaction we as humans have with our surroundings. I also enjoy the process of taking a concept and going through the highs and lows of bringing it to fruition. Not to mention that there is a certain pride that comes with being able to show people a finished project that you worked on 15-20 years later. In an industry typically concerned with lead times, pricing, performance, etc., it is also refreshing to be a part of a company that is striving toward a more sustainable and circular future for their materials.
The Role of Engineering in Façade Performance
How does engineering influence the performance and durability of EQUITONE hi-strength cement rainscreen panels?
The job of a façade engineer is not easy, as they must consider many factors in their designs to create a system that sufficiently holds EQUITONE, meets the hierarchal design intent, and follows manufacturer’s guidelines. For example, a particular orientation of sub framing rails, which can be the most practical way to achieve the panel layout, can often conflict, ensuring proper ventilation behind the material. Furthermore, spacing of the rails can also affect the materials impact resistance.
Can you walk us through the key engineering considerations when designing a rainscreen façade system?
Knowing the loading requirements is the first task (i.e. wind/seismic/impact). Then it is important to fully understand the cladding manufacturer’s guidelines for how to install and support their materials. Before the design is finished a check should be done to see if there is a specific thermal performance for the wall assembly. How often the system must be connected to the structure directly affects thermal transmittance (U-value).
Can you walk us through the key architectural considerations when designing a rainscreen façade system?
The key take away is that everything is interconnected. Decisions of what materials to specify cannot be made independent of each other but should be looked at wholistically. Below are some examples:
- The panel requirements affect the structural layout of the subframe, which then effects thermal performance of the exterior wall.
- Combining the effects of the subframing’s thermal bridges with the existence of exterior insulation and/or the type of insulation intern effects the location of condensation development. It will also affect the walls overall thermal transmittance (U-value).
- Where condensation occurs will then drive the air and water resistive barrier choice and location within the assembly.
- The type of insulation and cladding chosen will affect the fire performance requirements dictated by code. Furthermore, if NFPA 285 is required based on material selection, then the structural layout of the subframe becomes important.
Fire-Resistance & Safety
Fire safety is a top priority in building design. How do EQUITONE rainscreen panels contribute to fire resistance?
Except for the [inspires] collection, EQUITONE is noncombustible and will not contribute nor aid in the spread of fire.
What testing standards and certifications does EQUITONE meet to ensure safety compliance?
EQUITONE has been tested to a multitude of standards throughout the world, such as EN 13501, ULC S114, and ASTM E136 which shows our materials have noncombustible qualities. Furthermore, EQUITONE’s tested coatings have shown low flame spread and smoke development index values per EN13501, ULC S102 and ASTM E84. Finally, EQUITONE materials have been tested in NFPA 285 assemblies using both expose fastening and conceal fastening methods.
Structural Integrity & Durability
How does engineering contribute to the structural integrity of a façade system?
Engineers define the type and frequency of attachments. They perform hand calculations or use FEA software to confirm their designs and will resist the project specific loads dictated by the project’s structural engineer.
What are some of the biggest challenges when designing a façade that can withstand extreme weather conditions?
Understanding a material’s limit is very important and is why we as manufacturers must provide clear and concise information to the market so designers can make the appropriate choices. Some materials may need to be acclimatized to the environment, others may expand and contract more radically, once you know a material’s properties making appropriate accommodation in the design and installation is possible.
Energy Efficiency & Sustainability
How does EQUITONE contribute to a building’s overall energy efficiency?
EQUITONE materials are the front line of defense against radiant energy. This energy is reflected, but some are absorbed into and dissipated by the material.
Can you explain the role of ventilated rainscreen systems in improving thermal performance?
Natural convections within the air cavity push hot air up and draw in cool hair. This effect also helps dissipate radiant heat absorbed by the panels.
Sustainability is a major focus of modern architecture. How does EQUITONE align with sustainable building practices?
Etex is striving toward a circular economy by 2030. The goal is to provide an avenue for our materials to be reused, repurposed, or reintroduced into the production process. We also strive to design better buildings. Our technical team is here to provide support to the architect and installer in such activities as optimization of the panels to minimize waist, reviewing details to aid in best practices learned from global experience, and installer training. We are a company that wants to help bridge the gap between our materials longevity and building performance.
The Future of Engineering in Façade Design
What innovations or trends in façade engineering and design are you most excited about?
Over the last few years, a multitude of manufacturers, consultants, engineers, and architects have bound together to help define rainscreens. RAiNA is a single voice which is striving to clear up the misconceptions around rainscreen design and building performance. As mentioned previously, everything is interconnected and now there is a source of information for designers to go to which wholistically looks at the best practices for building better buildings.
Cladding manufacturers and fabricators are also getting more involved with system design. Some have gone so far to offer their own proprietary solutions. By providing the structural system, the manufacturer eliminates one more coordination step for the architect and installer, ensuring the material is properly supported.
How do you see façade engineering evolving in the next decade?
I think you will always see evolving textures and finishes come to fruition. Manufacturing technology is always improving, allowing for materials to adapt and change to the current architectural trends. Given some markets, like NYC, have huge carbon reduction targets by 2050, I feel we will see a very large shift in retrofitting older buildings. The use of rainscreens systems on older buildings offers a great opportunity to address moisture control issues and enhance thermal performance. I also think façade material manufacturers will come up with innovative systems to make installation quicker, easier, and cheaper than they are today.
What advice would you give to architects and engineers when selecting materials for their rainscreen design?
Try to gather as much information as possible before making any decisions on materials. As said earlier, everything in the exterior wall is connected and affects performance. Rainscreen design is a team sport where multiple manufacturers must come together to ensure long-lasting performance. Do not be afraid to reach out to the manufacturers and glean from their insights.