CIB Conferences
Abstract
This paper presents a state-of-the-art review of rainscreen cladding performance in residential building walls, with a focus on their moisture management capabilities, integration with windows, and use of exterior insulation to enhance building durability and energy efficiency. Rainscreens effectively control moisture and protect buildings from the weather, but challenges exist, particularly in integrating windows without disrupting the wall system's thermal and moisture performance, cost of rainscreen walls, and maintenance need. To address these challenges, this study involved two main approaches: (1) conducting an in-depth review of existing research, industry resources, and key documents from the Rainscreen Association in North America (RAINA), focusing on topics such as moisture management, airflow challenges around windows, rainscreen systems with continuous insulation, types of rainscreen cladding, cost analysis, installation challenges, techniques for installation above and below windows, and maintenance requirements; and (2) consulting industry experts to gain their professional insights and perspectives. A cost analysis of rainscreen systems reveals that while prefabricated solutions are more expensive than traditional façade systems, economies of scale may reduce costs over time. Industry insights suggest that while the use of rainscreens with ci can improve long-term building performance, challenges such as installation complexity, damage to weather barriers, and the need for ongoing maintenance must be considered for the long-term performance of rainscreen walls. By combining research findings and industry insights, this paper provides valuable guidance for architects, engineers, and builders in optimizing rainscreen systems in residential for better moisture management, durability, and energy efficiency in building envelope systems.
The paper will be presented:
In-person
Primary U.N. Sustainable Development Goals (SDG)
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure - - Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation
Primary CIB Task Group OR Working commission
W121 – Offsite Construction
Secondary CIB Task Group OR Working commission
W116 – Smart and Sustainable Built Environments
Recommended Citation
Palani, Hevar; Vo, Thanh; Bhandari, Mahabir; and Karatas, Aslihan
(2025)
"A Review of the State-of-the-Art of Rainscreen Cladding Performance in Residential Building Walls,"
CIB Conferences: Vol. 1
Article 232.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.7771/3067-4883.1819