Durability
Durable material with 50+ years of longevity, resistance to extreme temperatures, and a ventilated facade system for enhanced durability.
Discover the Benefits of Open-Joint Ventilated Rainscreen Systems
Build smarter with a high-performance rainscreen system that promotes ventilation, protects your structure from the elements, and elevates your design with a sleek, modern aesthetic.
What is a ventilated rainscreen system?
What is a ventilated rainscreen system?
A ventilated rainscreen system is an advanced facade solution designed to enhance the longevity and efficiency of a building's exterior. It features an open-joint façade panel installed with a ventilated air cavity behind it. This setup allows continuous airflow and moisture drainage, helping to regulate temperature, prevent water infiltration, and reduce structural stress.
EQUITONE panels are specifically designed to be used as part of a ventilated rainscreen system, safeguaring the buildiing from water damage and improving durability without sacrificing aesthetics
Structure of a ventilated rainscreen
Structure of a ventilated rainscreen
The rainscreen system can comprise of these five key components:
- Outer Cladding Panels: The outermost layer, often fiber cement, forms a durable, water-shedding surface that protects against weather and adds visual appeal. In an open-joint, ventilated rainscreen panels are typically installed with small gaps between them in open-joint rainscreen systems.
- Supporting Subframe: A system of vertical or horizontal rails, girts, clips or batten—usually made of aluminum, steel, or wood—supports the panels and connects them to the building structure.
- Ventilated Air Cavity: A small gap (typically ¾" to 1" or more) behind the cladding allows air to circulate, helping manage moisture and pressure.
- Insulation: Rigid mineral wool or foam boards are often placed on the outside of the inner wall or between subframe elements, improving thermal performance with continuous exterior insulation.
- Inner Backup Wall & Weather-Resistant Barrier: The structural wall (e.g. wood or metal studs, or concrete block) is protected by a weather barrier on its outer surface.
Advantages of a ventilated facade
Advantages of a ventilated facade
A ventilated rainscreen does more than keep water out—it significantly boosts the durability and lifespan of a building.
- Longer-Lasting Materials: By keeping moisture away from the structure and cladding, rainscreens help prevent rot, corrosion, and general material breakdown. Key components like sheathing and framing stay dry and last longer.
- Healthier Buildings: A dry wall system helps stop mold from forming inside the wall cavity protecting indoor air quality and preventing hidden damage that can lead to costly repairs.
- Stronger Weather Protection: The outer layer takes on wind, rain, and sun, while the ventilated gap helps keep the inner wall dry—even in extreme weather. Many rainscreen materials, like fiber cement panels, also offer fire resistance.
- Design Flexibility Without Compromise: Rainscreens separate the decorative outer layer from the waterproof inner wall, so architects can use bold designs—like open joints or mixed materials—without sacrificing performance.
- Future-Ready and Sustainable: Rainscreen systems meet today’s performance standards and help prepare buildings for the future. They support energy efficiency, resist moisture, and are suitable for both new builds and retrofits.
What makes EQUITONE panels ideal for ventilated rainscreens?
What makes EQUITONE panels ideal for ventilated rainscreens?
EQUITONE hi-strength (high-density) cement rainscreen panels are inherently durable and weather resistant. Made from a mixture of cement, cellulose, fibers, sand, and mineral pigments, EQUITONE panels are impervious to rot, rust, or insect damage, and they do not swell or warp with moisture. This material stability means they can withstand decades of exposure as the outer rainscreen layer while maintaining their appearance. They're also noncombustible*, an important safety consideration for ventilated cavity designs.
Many EQUITONE panels (excluding [pictura] and [inspires]) are through-colored, meaning the color extends throughout the thickness of the panel. This is perfect for open-joint rainscreens – even at panel edges or staggered joints, there’s no visible core or coating to worry about.
Benefits of EQUITONE fiber cement panels in ventilated rainscreen systems
Low maintenance
EQUITONE fiber cement rainscreen panels require minimal upkeep and no repainting, offering a hassle-free solution.
Weather and pest resistance
Built to withstand harsh weather, fiber cement won't rust, warp or crack, and is naturally resistant to dampness, bacteria, and algae, making it a reliable choice for long-term performance.
Fire safety
Our materials are noncombustible* and have been rigorously tested to fire standards, such as EN 13501.
Easy installation
EQUITONE offers straightforward installation supported by comprehensive, easy-to-follow step-by-step guides.