Driwall Rainscreen Delivers Moisture Protection and Ventilation for Austin’s Luxury Apartment Complex

Project Details:

• Location: Austin, TX
• Year completed: 2016
• Project type/category: Building Envelope
• Product/system used in project: Driwall Rainscreen 020-1 

Located in Austin, Texas, this complex offers luxury one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. Each of the 13 unique floor plans features hardwood or stained concrete flooring, granite or quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, spacious walk-in closets, and a private balcony. Residents can enjoy the vast amount of amenities including, the high-quality athletic center, the resort-style swimming pool, or the outdoor grilling area. Take a short drive and explore the Austin Music Hall, hit some golf balls at Austin Top Golf, have a shopping day at Arbor Walk, or grab a bite to eat at the various restaurants.

For this particular apartment complex, the developer wanted to eliminate as much concern about moisture issues as possible. Mold and decay can ruin the profitability of a project. With the increase in building “tightness” for thermal protection, moisture problems are on the rise, causing a greater need for hydrostatic pressure release and a ventilation method. A decision was made to incorporate Keene Building Products’ Driwall™ Rainscreen 020-1 to alleviate any future concerns related to moisture behind the variety of exterior veneers including stone, stucco, and fiber cement.

DriwalI™ Rainscreen 020-1 is a quarter-inch thick drainage and ventilation mat used behind exterior wall systems. The entangled net drainage and ventilation mat eliminates incidental moisture penetrations and problems in siding applications. With the increase in energy efficiency in the building envelope, there is less potential for thermal leakage. By eliminating a ventilation method, siding applications have seen an increase in moisture issues. It is essential to have a means of drainage and circulation of air to help prolong the life and look of the stone, stucco, and fiber cement used in this apartment complex.

The full-wall DriwalI™ Rainscreen 020-1 product rolls over the weather-resistant barrier to separate it from the exterior veneers. The airspace that is provided, will assure that any moisture that penetrates the siding can drain to the exterior.

Moisture and ventilation are essential to proper construction. This Austin Texas apartment complex is allowing the walls to breathe and stay dry.

DRIWALL™ Products – the right way to stay Dry!