How To Build A Rainscreen | Sculptform

Building a rainscreen is one of the most effective ways to protect modern buildings against harsh weather, improve thermal performance, and extend facade lifespan.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to build a rainscreen, explore different system types, and break down the key components involved in creating a high-performance rainscreen wall.

What is a Rainscreen Facade?

A rainscreen facade is a two-layer construction system designed to shield a building from moisture while allowing it to breathe:

• Inner wall: The load-bearing, insulated wall.

• Outer cladding layer: Deflects rain and moisture while creating a cavity that prevents water from penetrating the building structure.

This cavity helps drain water and allows airflow, reducing condensation and improving thermal efficiency.

Find out more

Types of Rainscreen Systems Explained

Three main types of rainscreen systems are commonly used in modern architecture:

1. Drained and Back Ventilated Rainscreen

   • Designed to drain most rainwater through the outer cladding.

   • Uses baffles and limited joint widths to block wind-driven rain.

   • Cavity promotes rapid evaporation and drainage.

2. Vented Rainscreen

   • Open at the bottom, closed at the top.

   • Focuses on draining moisture to prevent condensation.

   • Common with face-sealed cladding systems.

3. Pressure Equalised (PE) Rainscreen

   • Allows controlled airflow between the inside and outside of the cavity.

   • Equalises pressure across the cladding, preventing water ingress through joints.

   For this blog, we'll focus on drained and vented rainscreens, the most popular systems in facade design.

Key Components in a Rainscreen Build-Out

A rainscreen wall assembly typically includes these six critical components, installed in sequence:

1. Structural wall: The building’s main load-bearing layer.

2. Studs or noggings: Timber or steel framework to attach insulation and cladding.

3. Insulation layer: Mineral wool batts, foam sheathing, or spray foam to enhance thermal performance.

4. Weather protection membrane: A continuous barrier preventing water ingress while allowing vapour to escape.

5. Air cavity: A ventilated gap that supports drainage and airflow.

6. Cladding: The visible outer layer protecting against rain and adding design appeal.

Step-by-Step: How to Build a Rainscreen Wall

Here's a simplified walkthrough of the rainscreen installation process:

Step 1: Prepare the structural wall

Ensure the load-bearing wall is clean, even, and structurally sound.

Step 2: Install studs or noggings

Create a robust framework using timber or steel, aligned vertically or horizontally to support the cladding system.

Step 3: Apply insulation

Fit insulation boards or batts tightly between the studs to prevent thermal bridging.

Step 4: Attach the weather protection membrane

Cover the entire facade, overlapping joints and sealing edges with tape to create a continuous barrier.

Step 5: Create the ventilated air cavity

Fix vertical battens or brackets to support the cladding and ensure airflow behind it.

Step 6: Install cladding panels

Fix the rainscreen cladding securely using concealed or exposed fixings, depending on design preference.

Design Considerations for a High-Performance Rainscreen

When designing a rainscreen facade, keep in mind:

• Thermal performance: Choose insulation and cavity depth to meet energy codes.

• Weatherproofing: Ensure membrane and joint details prevent water ingress.

• Fire compliance: Select fire-rated materials for safety and code compliance.

• Wind loads and spans: Engineer fixings and substructure to handle wind pressures.

• Aesthetic appearance: Explore various cladding profiles, finishes, and colours.