The Power of Rainscreen Cladding: How Jesmonite Is Transforming Modern Facades

Introduction

Rainscreen cladding is a high-performance building envelope solution designed to protect structures from weather while enhancing aesthetics and energy efficiency. At its core, a rainscreen system consists of an outer cladding layer that deflects rain and wind, paired with a ventilated cavity that allows moisture to escape and air to circulate. This clever design prevents water from penetrating the building and promotes the drying of any trapped moisture.

As construction standards evolve and design expectations rise, rainscreen cladding has gained widespread popularity for both new builds and retrofits. With architects and developers seeking materials that offer performance, beauty, and sustainability, rainscreen systems are quickly becoming a go-to solution.

Jesmonite is playing a vital role in this transformation, offering advanced material systems that enable the creation of cement-based rainscreen panels in virtually any finish, color, or texture. Our innovative GRC (glass reinforced cement) raw materials allow fabricators and designers to push creative boundaries without compromising durability or compliance.

What is Rainscreen Cladding?

Rainscreen cladding operates on the principle of a dual-layer construction. The outer panel acts as a shield against direct weather exposure, while the ventilated cavity behind it ensures any water that penetrates is safely drained and evaporated. This helps maintain the structural integrity of the wall assembly and minimises the risk of mold, mildew, or material degradation.

Key benefits include:

• Moisture control: Prevents water ingress and encourages evaporation.

• Thermal performance: Improves insulation and reduces energy costs.

• Aesthetic value: Offers diverse design options with cleaner, more modern finishes.

Materials Used in Rainscreen Cladding

A wide variety of materials can be used in rainscreen systems, each offering unique benefits and trade-offs depending on the project requirements, budget, and desired aesthetic:

• Metal (Aluminum, Steel): Metals are a popular choice for their clean lines and contemporary appeal. Aluminum offers corrosion resistance and lightweight handling, while steel provides added strength. However, both can be prone to denting and often come at a higher price point. Metal panels also require careful detailing to manage thermal expansion and avoid oil-canning.

• Wood: Timber cladding offers a warm, organic look that appeals in residential and hospitality settings. While visually striking, wood demands regular maintenance to prevent rot, warping, or insect damage. It also has limited fire resistance unless specially treated, making it less ideal for certain building types or fire-sensitive zones.

• Fiber Cement: A durable and cost-effective option, fiber cement panels combine cellulose fibers with cement to create a rigid and relatively weather-resistant material. While affordable and straightforward to install, fiber cement is heavier and offers less design flexibility compared to more advanced composite options.

• GRC/GFRC (Glass Reinforced Cement/Concrete): GRC—also known as GFRC in North America—is a high-performance composite made from cement, fine aggregates, alkali-resistant glass fibers, and often polymer modifiers. This material stands out for its ability to be molded into intricate shapes and textures, offering unmatched versatility in rainscreen applications. It is significantly lighter than precast concrete, allowing for easier handling and installation, and it delivers exceptional durability, fire resistance, and environmental resilience. GRC is particularly suited for creative or large-scale cladding solutions that demand both structural integrity and custom visual impact.

  
  

Jesmonite’s specialised GRC raw materials elevate these advantages even further, giving architects and fabricators the ability to achieve high-end finishes with reduced environmental impact and excellent repeatability at scale.

Spotlight on GRC/GFRC for Rainscreen Applications

GRC, or glass reinforced cement, is a composite material made of cement, fine aggregates, glass fibers, and sometimes acrylic polymers. This combination results in a lightweight yet incredibly strong material perfect for architectural panels.

Advantages of GRC/GFRC in rainscreen cladding:

• Durability: Resistant to weathering, corrosion, and impact.

• Design Flexibility: Easily molded into complex shapes and detailed textures.

• Lightweight: Reduces structural load, simplifying installation.

• Fire Resistance: Non-combustible and compliant with international fire safety standards.

  
  

Jesmonite's GRC raw materials make it easier than ever to fabricate rainscreen panels that meet both structural demands and aesthetic goals.

Design Considerations for GRC/GFRC Rainscreen Cladding

To get the most out of a GRC rainscreen system, several design factors must be considered:

• Panel Sizes & Shapes: One of the standout advantages of GRC is its ability to be cast into a variety of shapes and sizes. From large-format flat panels to organically curved forms and sculptural details, Jesmonite GRC enables complete design freedom. This flexibility supports bold architectural expression while reducing the limitations often found with traditional materials.

• Joint Design & Detailing: Successful rainscreen cladding depends on thoughtful joint design. Joints must accommodate thermal movement, provide weather protection, and support aesthetic continuity. Jesmonite panels work well with both open and closed joint systems, and can be detailed to align with the geometry of windows, corners, and facade transitions.

• Color & Texture: With Jesmonite, surface finish possibilities are nearly limitless. Designers can choose from smooth, matte, polished, or textured surfaces, and incorporate pigments and decorative aggregates for a natural stone look. This makes it easy to match contextual materials or develop a unique visual language for a building.

• System Integration: GRC panels must interface seamlessly with surrounding building elements—windows, doors, HVAC penetrations, and rooflines. Jesmonite’s lightweight nature and dimensional stability make integration simpler during the design and installation phases, ensuring performance across the entire envelope.

  
  

Designing with GRC isn’t just about choosing a cladding—it’s about crafting an architectural experience that is resilient, beautiful, and built to last.

Installing GRC/GFRC Rainscreen Systems

Please note: The following is a general overview of rainscreen installation principles. It is not a substitute for professional installation guidance, local building codes, or project-specific engineering.

The success of a rainscreen system depends not only on material quality, but also on the precision and care taken during installation. Proper alignment, ventilation, and fastening techniques are essential to ensure durability, water management, and aesthetic consistency.

Here’s an outline of the typical process:

1. Substrate Preparation: The substrate or backing wall must be clean, structurally sound, and moisture-protected. Any surface irregularities should be corrected to ensure proper alignment of the cladding system. Moisture barriers or waterproof membranes may be applied depending on the system design and building requirements.

2. Framing & Support Structure: A secondary framework, often composed of metal rails or brackets, is installed over the substrate. This framework serves as the structural base for securing the GRC panels while allowing space for ventilation and drainage. The cavity between the cladding and the wall plays a key role in the rainscreen system's performance.

3. Panel Fixing: GRC panels are mounted to the support system using mechanical fixings such as stainless steel anchors, brackets, or concealed clips. Fixing methods will vary based on the panel design, size, and orientation. Proper spacing is essential to accommodate thermal expansion and maintain structural integrity.

4. Joint Sealing & Finishing: Joints between panels are designed for movement and drainage. Depending on the system, they may be open (allowing ventilation) or sealed with gaskets or weather-resistant sealants. Final detailing includes corner trims, edge treatments, and any visible fixings, ensuring a cohesive finish that complements the architectural vision.

   
   

By following these principles and working with experienced installers, GRC rainscreen cladding systems can deliver exceptional long-term performance while elevating the appearance and resilience of the building envelope.

Lets Reinvent Cladding!

Rainscreen cladding continues to redefine modern architecture by offering enhanced performance, longevity, and design freedom. When paired with the versatility and durability of Jesmonite’s GRC materials, it becomes a powerful tool for creating striking, sustainable buildings.

Looking to specify rainscreen panels for your next project? Contact the experts at JesmoniteProjects.com to explore the possibilities.