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How rainscreens ‘mind the gap’ to protect walls.

It’s inevitable: moisture will eventually find its way behind the wall cladding. And left unchecked, moisture in a wall cavity can lead to a range of costly consequences – from rotting wood to mildew and mold. Fortunately, modern building science has developed an effective preventive solution: the rainscreen.

What is a rainscreen?

A rainscreen is an exterior wall detail in which the weather-facing (cladding) surface is fixed at least 1/8th of an inch away from the weather-resistive barrier surface on the wall. That gap creates a capillary break, or drainage plane, that allows moisture to drain and evaporate before it can cause problems. The gap is key – any cladding or veneer attached to a wall without one is NOT a rainscreen.

Henry® WeatherSmart® Rainscreen

Our contribution to rainscreen technology is Henry WeatherSmart Rainscreen. Ideal for stucco and compatible with all cladding types, WeatherSmart Rainscreen features a 3D matrix that creates a 6mm ventilation and drainage gap between the weather-resistive barrier and exterior cladding. The matrix consists of polypropylene strands that channel water down and out of the wall assembly, and it’s backed with a built-in fabric to protect the wall gap from debris and promote unobstructed airflow.

Why WeatherSmart® Rainscreen?

Henry WeatherSmart Rainscreen will help protect buildings from the risks of mold, rot and mildew (and help protect contractors from call-backs).

WeatherSmart Rainscreen is part of the Henry 1-2-3 Moisture Control System that's backed by an industry-leading 15-year warranty covering materials PLUS labor. Its compatible components make it easy to select and install the right solution – simply choose the barrier, flashing and sealant that works best for your project. No matter the climate, cladding, construction type or code, Henry has a weatherization system to help you build with confidence. 

Contact a Henry weatherization expert for advice and support on your next job.