Rainscreen Backup Wall Design Considerations & Lessons Learned for Better Trade Coordination

Tuesday, June 10, 2025 | 12-1 p.m. Eastern Time
1 LU/HSW

When designing a rainscreen wall system, the backup wall design is one of the most important to properly detail and coordinate with all the trades. Construction tolerances, installation requirements for the backup wall, water and air resistive barriers, insulation detailing, and the rainscreen support system are all important considerations. Each component must be understood ahead of time so the systems are properly detailed and specified before construction of the backup wall begins. Understanding required connections based on materials, tested systems, and material compatibility makes the quest to create the best possible building a reality. Join us for tips and best practices to improve details and specifications for a successful rainscreen project.

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Image by AECOM Hunt Construction.

 Learning Objectives:

  • Discuss early structural design considerations to accept air, vapor, water, and insulation control systems to ensure adequate bid document detailing.
  • Understand construction tolerances for systems and components to properly detail the structural rainscreen backup wall for different types of installations.
  • Review types of rainscreen wall systems and their typical associated support systems.
  • Apply lessons learned about continuity, structural fastening detailing, wall membrane requirements, limitations of systems, what is needed for drawing and specification coordination, and how to transfer them to Construction Documents for implementation.

About the Speaker

Corey Zussman, AIA, NCARB, ALA, RBEC, RRC, REWC, RWC, RRO, CDT, CQM, CxA+BE, BECxP, CABS, LEED® AP BD+C
QA/QC Vice President, AECOM Hunt

Corey Z

Corey Zussman, a forensic architect registered in multiple states, has over 30 years of experience in the construction industry. He specializes in building envelopes, restoration, preservation, life safety, and interior finishes. Throughout his career, Corey has worked on more than 2,000 projects, conducting constructability reviews, pre-installation meetings, comprehensive envelope meetings, and construction observations.

Recognized for his dedication to education within the industry, Corey has authored over 200 "lessons learned" papers on topics such as building envelopes and life safety. These insights enable him to proactively address issues during design reviews, pre-construction, and construction phases. He has also published more than 15 industry articles and frequently presents at local and national conferences. With over 50 AIA-accredited presentations to his name, Corey continues to share his expertise and contribute to advancements in the field.

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