Project Background
A leading developer worked with Donald R. Frantz Concrete Construction, LLC to construct 19 townhome buildings in St. Paul, MN, each featuring 4 to 15 individual units. With a significant portion of the exterior clad in thin masonry veneer, the project required a cost-effective and time-saving solution that would streamline installation while ensuring long-term moisture protection.
Challenge
The project team needed a system that would:
✔ Reduce labor costs by minimizing installation steps.
✔ Accelerate construction without sacrificing quality.
✔ Ensure proper moisture drainage to protect the building envelope.
✔ Meet UL fire ratings and sound code requirements.
Solution: Driwall™ LathNet
The team selected Driwall™ LathNet, an innovative two-in-one system that integrates a galvanized metal lath with a polyethylene drainage mesh. Unlike traditional methods that require separate lath and drainage components, LathNet allows for a single-step installation, significantly reducing labor time and complexity.
Key Benefits for the Project
- Labor & Time Savings – Self-furring design and overlap indicators simplify alignment and installation.
- Superior Moisture Management – Prevents water entrapment and promotes drainage behind adhered masonry.
- Versatile Compatibility – Works with stucco, thin brick, stone, and other adhered masonry systems.
- Code Compliance – Meets UL fire ratings and supports energy-efficient wall assemblies.
Results
By utilizing Driwall™ LathNet, the project achieved:
- Faster installation, keeping the development on schedule.
- Lower labor costs, as crews could install lath and drainage in one step.
- Increased durability, preventing moisture-related failures in the exterior façade.
Conclusion
For large-scale residential projects, Driwall™ LathNet provides a smarter, more efficient approach to installing thin masonry veneer. By eliminating extra installation steps and improving moisture management, LathNet helped this townhome development meet its budget and timeline goals while delivering a high-performance building envelope.
