Moisture Management

High-Performance Rain Screen Systems

Fiberon Composite Cladding contributes to effective moisture management in the building envelope.

Outdoor & Indoor Moisture Are Constant Threats

It is estimated that construction defect repair claims and litigation cost more than $9 billion per year. Much of the damage can be traced back to water and moisture-related issues. Rain, especially wind-driven rain, and high interior moisture can be easily absorbed into building materials. Over time, the moisture can build up, leading to material decay and structural damage.

Drain, Deflect & Dry

To prevent moisture-related damage, you must design exterior walls that can drain and dry. A rainscreen system creates a continuous air space behind the cladding to promote draining and drying. Even an air space as narrow as 3/8 inches wide will:

• Allow water to drain effectively
• Prevent capillary moisture movement
• Accelerate drying significantly

Rainscreens have been required by codes and used effectively with brick veneer and stone facades for decades. Today, they are being specified and installed in a range of commercial and residential applications.

Cladding & Water Absorption

Many common cladding materials - brick, stucco, and wood, for example - will absorb water quite readily rather than deflect it.

Fiberon cladding boards deflect water. What's more, they resist fading due to sun exposure (wood does not) and are not affected by freeze / thaw cycles. Fiber-cement, wood, and sometimes brick and stucco are affected.