Because of their rainwater management benefits, rainscreen cladding systems have seen increased use. Traditionally in rainscreen cladding designs the joints in the exterior cladding are sealed to minimize the potential for water intrusion into the drainage cavity, with the exceptions of weeps and pressure equalization vents, which are generally sheltered from water ingress.  However, recent trends in the design of exterior claddings are showing increased use of open-jointed rainscreen cladding systems.

The presenters will discuss the implications of open joints for the performance of rainscreen systems. Various approaches to the design of open-jointed rainscreen cladding systems will be discussed, and a case study demonstrating the detailing of an open-jointed cladding system will be offered.