Can a rainscreen be installed on a building with deteriorating or damaged facade?
A rainscreen can be installed on any building with a deteriorating or damaged facade, provided the building is structurally sound. The facade should be fixed to the extent possible, under the direction of a structural engineer. An air and vapor barrier and rigid insulation should be installed behind the rainscreen system. The rainscreen will provide the restored facade the necessary moisture protection for many years to come, along with insulation and maintenance benefits.
The extent of fixes necessary to the existing damaged facade will vary from project to project. It depends on the unique circumstances of each building in question, including level of damage, local building codes and requirements, and design intent for the restored building. The structural engineering and architectural teams must assess all variables to make an informed decision. A structural engineer must also determine the ability of the existing facade to support the new rainscreen system. In some cases, if the facade is not structurally sound but restoring it is not possible, the rainscreen supports may be attached (drilled) directly into the building slabs, by-passing the facade. This avoids loading the new rainscreen system onto the damaged facade.
If you have a question or concern, please fill out the form below to contact a Bendheim Representative and we will reach back out to you in a timely manner. You may also call us at 800.221.7379 anytime between 9:00 am – 5:00 pm EST (Mon–Fri, except holidays).