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.
Why the ventilated cavity matters in rainscreen design
Why the ventilated cavity matters in rainscreen design
As building experts often say, “minding the gap” is key to keeping walls dry and durable. The space behind ventilated rainscreen panels plays an important role in managing moisture and protecting the structure.
- Stops Water from Seeping In (Capillary Break): The gap between the outer panel and the wall acts as a moisture barrier. In traditional walls, water can sneak through tiny cracks and get drawn into the wall. With a ventilated rainscreen, that gap makes it much harder for water to reach the inner wall.
- Drains Rainwater Away: If any water gets past the outer panels, the cavity gives it a path to drain out safely. Gravity pulls water down, and special openings at the bottom let it exit. This two-layer system is much safer than relying on a single wall to block all moisture.
- Lets the Wall Breathe and Dry: Openings at the top and bottom of the panels allow air to move through the gap. As warm air rises and escapes, cooler air gets pulled in below—creating constant airflow. This airflow helps dry out any moisture quickly.
Together, these three features—moisture blocking, drainage, and drying—make ventilated rainscreen systems one of the best ways to protect walls from water damage. Studies show walls with ventilated gaps dry much faster than those without, which is especially helpful in rainy or humid areas like coastal regions.
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. Think of it as preventive care for your building.
- 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. EQUITONE panels, for example, come in large formats with a range of colors and textures, supporting creative facades that still perform at a high level.
- 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 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.
Type I-IV Construction
