Aluminum Furring and Hat Channels for Wall Cladding and Rainscreens

A rainscreen is the first line of defense on the weather-facing surface of an exterior wall detail that stands off at least 1/8” from the moisture-resistant surface of the structural backup wall. In many cases, this would be a brick veneer, stone veneer or other types of masonry veneers. Buildings that utilize aluminum wall cladding to drain and dry last a lot longer than walls that stay wet. An air gap between the siding and sheathing lets both dry independently. Aluminum Furring Channels are the best way to make that air gap.

Extruded Aluminum is the Solution

Protecting commercial buildings and homes from trapped moisture is critical. Using Aluminum hat channels or furring channels allows moisture and air to pass freely behind cladding to create a natural rain screen system. Made of aluminum, Eagle Mouldings hat channels are strong and durable, resistant to warping, splitting, mold and mildew, and will never rust. Each piece is dimensionally cut to your specifications so that you receive identical pieces every time. There is no comparison to the longevity of aluminum furring channels to that of wood or steel. In fact, an aluminum furring channel lasts so much longer than wood or steel that it often comes with a lifelong guarantee.

Vulnerabilities of Wood Furring Construction

When you use wood to create a barrier between wall and cladding you are creating a barrier that is naturally vulnerable to moisture absorption. Trapped moisture behind siding can cause peeling paint, rotting wood, deteriorating house wrap, siding to mold or mildew; and increase your home’s susceptibility to termites and wood rot. Eagle Mouldings’ aluminum furring channel is the best alternative in the industry.

An Easier Solution to Creating a Moisture Barrier

Rain has the potential to leak behind the siding and cause moisture build-up. The key is to create a separation between the building’s wrap and the siding to create a drainage plane. Eagle Mouldings’ aluminum channels can be used to provide both a vertical channel for air and moisture to vent and drain out as well as a horizontal channel to allow air movements; this kind of rainscreen construction minimizes the potential water and vapor penetration of the exterior wall. Extend the life of the siding and paint by eliminating heat and moisture build-up. Provide a vertical and horizontal channel for airflow and moisture. Our aluminum furring channels are crush-resistant, repel moisture, and resist mold and mildew making them the best solution.