Moisture intrusion in a wall system can be the cause of building defects, as well as health ailments for the building's occupants, making rainscreens a very important tool in water mitigation. This course will review the cause and effects of moisture intrusion, and more specifically the forces that drive rainwater into a building. We will identify different rainscreen technologies and ASTM testing standards that measure their performance. We will discuss fiber cement panels and how they can be used as a rainscreen to reduce moisture build-up, rotting interior walls and mold growth. By the end of the course you will understand basic design approaches and guidelines for installing fiber cement panels as a rainscreen.


Learning Objectives

  • Describe the cause and effect of moisture intrusion in a wall system.
  • Examine the importance of rainscreens and weather barriers in water mitigation.
  • Identify examples of rainscreen technology and testing standards that measure their performance.
  • Discuss how some fiber cement panels act as a rainscreen and review guidelines for their installation as a rainscreen.

Prerequisite: None.