|
Rain screen construction is a modification
of cavity walls that were developed to prevent rain penetration
through the masonry by providing a drainage cavity in the wall.
The cavity was an ideal place for the insulation but filling
the cavity with insulation diminished its value as a drain for
moisture.
Rain screen design calls for insulating
the exterior faces of the inner wythe to provide for the structural
and insulation components of the wall system. This wall should
also meet the requirements for an air barrier in the construction.
A clear ventilated space is maintained to the outer wythe
which has a number of vent holes to assure there is no wind
pressure differential across the wythe to aid penetration
of rain. The exterior wythe provides the exterior finish for
the building. Canadian Building Digests 40, 44 and 50 by the
Division of Building Research (now the Institute for Research
in Construction) at the National Research Council provide
design information for this construction.
PlastiSpan® and DuroFoam® insulation
is recommended for rain screen walls. It is rigid to allow
placement to provide a full covering of the wall surface.
It resists penetration of moisture and air and by sealing
the joints the wall can be effectively sealed both to moisture
and air movement. The rain screen design can be effective
because it provides for a complete covering of insulation
on the wall.
 |
To view the design manual document on Cavity Walls, click here.
Please note that you need to be logged on to view this brochure. Go to login or registration page now. |
|
