This study examines the field performance of rainscreen wall assemblies in the west coast climate over a period of six years.

Three new and two rehabilitated multi-unit residential buildings were selected for the monitoring study, which was initiated in 2000. For each of the buildings, at least five different rainscreen wall locations were instrumented with sensors to measure temperature, relative humidity (RH), moisture content, relative wetness, and pressure differential within the wall assemblies. Temperature and RH levels were also monitored for sample interior suites and weather stations were installed on each rooftop to measure wind, rain, temperature, and RH. Finally, driving rain gauges were installed at two locations on each building façade to understand local driving rain loads.

The highlights of this research project have been published in a Homeowner Protection Office technical bulletin. The full report is also available for download.