That is the question! One standard method of protecting a structure, siding, or stain from moisture damage is with the installation of a rainscreen. Essentially, a rainscreen allows a channel for moisture to escape from between the sheathing and siding of a building. A good system is strong enough to obstruct most of the wind and rain and benefits the home in several ways.

While the house wrap weatherproofs your home, preventing water and air from the great outdoors from entering the home, a rainscreen system is a bit different. The rainscreen creates an air gap between the siding material and waterproof material (house wrap) and helps prevent moisture from being trapped. It also allows for suitable air circulation within the wall.

Often the question to install one in your siding project largely depends upon the present building code in your area of the province. A builder must be informed regarding current codes as they change all the time. Undoubtedly, walls must be designed to stay dry in all seasons, specifically in hot and cold climates like Canada. Today, houses are built to be tight and energy efficient; therefore, a rainscreen is necessary.

Phoenix Siding can install a rainscreen system for you. Our trained professionals apply ½ inch – ¾ inch pressure treated plywood strips vertically, allowing the walls of your home to breathe.

BENEFITS OF A RAINSCREEN

  • The immediate costs of a rainscreen are nominal compared to the remediation costs of repairing mold and mildew problems.
  • Rainscreens can prevent even small amounts of trapped moisture in a wall from creating a serious mold problem.
  • A rainscreen shields and protects the siding due to the gap it provides, even if a little moisture penetrates, potentially making the siding last longer.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU DON’T RAIN SCREEN

  • Poor air circulation in walls can result in higher heating and cooling costs.
  • Increased chances of mold and mildew growth occurring in walls.
  • Think leaky condo—without the addition of a drainage plane, there remains a higher risk of moisture from inevitable imperfections in wall materials and construction (eg. caulking wears out eventually).

In addition, rainscreen systems solve the problem of prematurely failing sidings and exterior finishes. Modern insulation in walls keeps siding material colder and wetter, so material quality has suffered. Although no wall is 100% waterproof, rainscreens help resolve these issues.

Our knowledgeable staff can provide you with information on rainscreens and clear up any concerns you may have. Contact us today for expert siding facts you can trust.