Rainscreen systems
Rainscreen Siding Systems in Nanaimo
A drainage gap behind your siding that lets walls dry out — essential on the wet coast.
- Free on-site estimates
- Locally owned on the Island
- Workmanship warranty
- Fully insured + WorkSafeBC
- James Hardie · LP SmartSide
Why rainscreen systems on Vancouver Island
Drainage and drying
Water that gets past the siding drains out instead of soaking the wall.
Longer siding life
Boards dry from both sides, so paint and wood last longer.
Required by code
The BC Building Code requires a drained, vented gap behind siding in wet coastal climates like ours.
Code minimum vs. how we build it
What the BC Building Code requires
- A drained and vented air gap behind the siding (at least 10 mm deep) in wet coastal climates like Vancouver Island
- A second line of defence behind the gap (housewrap/sheathing membrane)
- Flashing that sends water out to the exterior
Based on BC Building Code Part 9, Article 9.27.2.2. Your local building department has final say on your project.
How we build every rainscreen
- Vertical strapping, so the gap drains straight down and out
- Bug screen at the bottom and top of the gap, so insects can't nest behind your siding
- Flashing at windows, doors and the base of the wall
- The same rainscreen standard on re-sides of older homes that were built without one
Older home without a rainscreen?
Many Island homes were sided before rainscreens became standard, so water that gets behind the siding has nowhere to go. Re-siding is the right time to add one. We open the wall, repair any soft sheathing, and rebuild it to current code.
Book a free wall checkA clear plan for your exterior starts with a free visit.
Get My Free EstimateOur exterior work
Lap siding over exterior insulation
Current pricing
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Siding service near you
Our process
How it works
- 1
Free on-site visit
- 2
Fixed written quote
- 3
Install with rainscreen detailing
- 4
Final walkthrough and warranty
No surprise invoices: the written quote is the price unless you change the scope.
FAQ
Common questions
What is a rainscreen?
A small air gap made with strapping between the wall membrane and siding.
Is a rainscreen required in BC?
Yes, in wet coastal climates like Vancouver Island. The BC Building Code requires a drained, vented gap behind the cladding for most homes. We confirm the details with your local building department.
Does it work with every siding?
Yes — vinyl, fibre cement, engineered wood and cedar.
Will it change my window trim?
Trim is built out slightly; we detail it so it looks intentional.
Does it help prevent rot?
Yes. That's the main reason it exists. Water that gets past the siding drains out of the gap instead of sitting against the wall, and air movement dries the sheathing and framing before moisture can cause rot.