When architect David Prickett of Carlile Coatsworth Architects embarked on the design of the Carpenter’s Union Training Center in Austin, Texas, he was faced with the challenge of selecting the right rain screen system that aligns with the project’s sustainable design goals. In this regard, the Climate-Shield rain screen system emerged as the perfect choice, thanks to its outstanding sustainable design features.
One of the key benefits of the Climate-Shield rain screen system is its ability to eliminate the need for wood furring strips. This design innovation significantly reduces thermal bridging on the building’s exterior, typically amounting to less than 2%. Equally significant is the unobstructed exterior surface, facilitating efficient moisture removal from both the building’s interior and any external bulk water, thus creating a unique advantage for the Climate-Shield rain screen system.
The selection of hardwood siding for this project was rooted in a quest for durability and natural aesthetic appeal. FSC® certified Machiche hardwood was chosen as the ideal wood siding, primarily due to its sustainability and the rich, tropical grain patterns and color variations it offers. The design team sought to create a harmonious combination of colors and textures by integrating organic wood with the inorganic elements of masonry, glass, and metal, resulting in a visually striking and cohesive design.
The responsibility for the construction of this project and the installation of the wood rain screen system fell into the capable hands of Way-Tech Inc., a full-service construction management company based in Houston, Texas. The FSC certified hardwood siding installation, including the Machiche rain screen, proceeded seamlessly. A noteworthy detail in the installation process was the precision in mitering and aligning the outside corners on-site, adding to the overall excellence of the project.
