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What is a Rainscreen?

If you live in the Lower Mainland, you have likely heard the term ‘rainscreen’, though you may not know exactly what it means. A rainscreen is an exterior wall detail where the siding stands away from the moisture–resistant surface of an air/water barrier applied to the sheathing to create a space to allow drainage and evaporation. Ideally, the rainscreen prevents water from getting trapped between the siding and air/water barrier, which can result in mold, rot, or a leak into the interior of the building. 

Why is rainscreening necessary? 

You may have heard the term ‘leaky condos’. During the 1980s and 1990s many Vancouver condos and apartment buildings were built more to sustain a California-style climate. They used less expensive stucco and thinner exterior finishes typically meant for sunnier climates. Developers at this time didn’t realize the impact rain would have on these buildings. Our rainforest climate did not mix well with this newer style of stucco, resulting in water ingress in many buildings and the ‘leaky condo’ era. 

Why is this important? 

If you are looking to purchase a condo in the Lower Mainland, you’re likely going to come across a variety of buildings from the 80’s and 90’s. It’s important you have a Realtor familiar with rainscreening that can help guide you through which buildings have been rainscreened and whether it is needed. 

Not every building from the ’90s needs rainscreening. The type of stucco used and the style of construction can effect whether rainscreening is necessary. It’s important you have someone working for you that knows what to look for. 

How do I recognize rainscreen technology?

Some rainscreening is obvious just by looking at the building- it can be flashing above doors and windows and in-between floors. Other visual indications include brick exteriors (brick is a natural rainscreen product), horizontal air gaps, and drainage-specific areas along balconies and roof lines. 

As a result of leaky condos causing major problems for property owners, Vancouver set some standards and every building built after 1999 must be rainscreened. If you have questions as to whether a building you are interested in is rainscreened, or may need to be in the future, consult a knowledgable Realtor today.

With Spring just around the corner the real estate market will likely start to heat up and you may see more open houses in your neighbourhood. Your Realtor may not always be able to attend open houses with you, so should you go it alone, here are a few helpful tips to ensure a good open house experience for both yourself and the listing agent…

1. Take your shoes off. When in doubt, always ask, but it’s typically preferred by agents and sellers that you leave your shoes at the door. If you can, try to wear a pair of socks.

2. Provide your Realtor’s contact information. If you are currently working with a Realtor, it’s always a nice gesture to provide the host of the open house with your Realtor’s contact information. This isn’t so they will later pressure you into buying the home, it’s so the owners can receive feedback via the Realtors about what consumers liked and disliked about their home.

3. Don’t disclose your personal information. To follow #2, if you do have a Realtor, you may want to be tight-lipped. The listing agent may ask for you to sign in, and that is fine. However, it’s never a good idea to divulge too much information. Things that should remain confidential are: your financial situation, how much you are pre-approved for, the amount you sold your home for, the closing dates you hope for, etc. Be cordial and friendly, without disclosing too much.

4. Ask before you take pictures or use the washroom. Most agents won’t have an issue with you doing either of these, but it’s always best to ask nicely first.

5. Beware Hidden Cameras! In this day and age of ‘nanny cams’ this is a real concern. There is a high likelihood that the seller is monitoring their open house from a hidden camera, doorbell camera, or audio-recording device. Mind what you say about the property and what you touch- be on your best behavior.

6. Mind Your Children. Of course, children are welcome at most open houses. It can even be a great idea to bring them along and get them excited about moving. However, Realtors make poor babysitters, so be mindful to keep your children close to you and off the furniture.

7. Respect Covid Protocols. This is a hot-topic these days, and every seller will have their own preferences about Covid protection. Wearing a mask is standard at open houses today, but you may also be asked to sanitize your hands, sign a Covid waiver, or even put shoe covers over your feet. It’s best to oblige the seller, even if you don’t agree with their requests.

Remember- Open Houses are also supposed to be enjoyable! Take your time, ask questions about the house and neighbourhood, and try to visualize yourself in the home. If you can picture yourself there, it may just be the one for you!

Happy House Hunting!