Stucco with Rainscreen: The Smart Solution for Lasting Protection

Stucco will inevitably crack—but with rainscreen, you can prevent costly moisture damage. Designed for airflow and rapid drying, rainscreen creates a lasting solution that protects structures, boosts durability, and ensures long-term performance for stucco systems.
An All-New Way To Stucco – The Benefits of Rainscreen

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There are two types of stucco: stucco that is cracked and stucco that will crack. That’s why finding a lasting solution is critical.

What Is a Rainscreen?

A rainscreen is an entangled net drainage mat designed for use under multiple claddings—including stucco, stone, and siding transitions. It creates a drainage and ventilation gap within the wall system, helping walls dry faster and last longer. Our rainscreens are engineered to wrap continuously around corners, eliminating the need to butt and creating a seamless barrier.

Installation is simple with a cap hammer stapler, and our products meet all building codes in all zones, passing ASTM E2925 and E2273 with greater than 90% drainage efficiency. Wider rolls reduce seams and speed installation, while built-in bug screens protect against infestation. Plus, with superior rigidity and compressive strength, our rainscreens outperform alternatives.

Driwall Rainscreen installation video

Benefits of Using Rainscreen with Stucco

Stucco is a highly absorptive cladding, meaning it holds water. When stucco is applied directly to a wall with no gap, drying takes much longer—leading to moisture buildup, cracks, and costly structural issues.

By using a rainscreen behind stucco, walls can dry to both the rainscreen gap and the exterior. This cross-ventilation dramatically speeds drying and reduces the risk of damage from trapped moisture.

Beyond moisture protection, rainscreen also improves overall energy efficiency and indoor comfort. By promoting airflow and preventing water intrusion, it helps maintain insulation performance and reduces the likelihood of mold growth inside the wall system. In short, a rainscreen system creates a healthier, longer-lasting wall assembly.

A Smarter Approach to Stucco

Homeowners, architects, and contractors who want durability and peace of mind know that stucco with rainscreen is the right choice. The Driwall™ Rainscreen line from Keene Building Products delivers longevity, performance, and protection against moisture intrusion—helping stucco systems last for decades.