Retrofits are telling peeks into our construction past. Old ways of doing things. Old ways of thinking. Inefficiencies everywhere. Often, retrofits lack key performance elements, such as airtightness, continuous insulation, and effective moisture control. So, at the start of a project, we ask the question: How can we bring this dinosaur up to current building standards?
But that is the wrong question.
The right question is: How can we strategically design this retrofit so that not only is it brought up to current building standards, but it’s also equipped to meet climate, code, and performance demands well into the future?
Because that is what a retrofit is. It is an opportunity. But it’s only an opportunity if you are familiar with and have access to the right tools.
Retrofit Rainscreens and Futureproofing
Current retrofit initiatives are driven by the desire for a new, modern look, updated code requirements, environmental goals, and increased awareness of occupant health and building resilience. Influential factors include:
- Energy codes such as IECC, Title 24, and New York Local Law 97
- ESG expectations from investors and tenants
- Insurance pressures related to weather durability and fire safety
These drivers set the baseline for expectations. But we can do better. Much better.
Retrofit rainscreens are strategic infrastructure upgrades that help property owners meet evolving energy codes, climate goals, and durability standards. According to Performance Validation, a company that offers services to help clients meet cGMP and FDA regulations, these performance-enhancing systems have been proven to reduce heating and cooling energy usage by up to 40%! Plus, they reduce mechanical loads and lower condensation risk, resulting in a longer envelope lifespan and a more stable indoor environment.
Rainscreens contribute to higher-performing envelopes by providing:
- Continuous insulation that helps limit thermal bridging
- Improved control of air leakage and bulk water intrusion
- Better thermal comfort and interior humidity regulation
In other words, retrofit rainscreens can transform a relic of the past into a paragon of future performance. Especially if you specify the most advanced, most trusted rainscreen system on the market today: StoVentec® Rainscreen Systems.
StoVentec®: A Complete Retrofit System
By definition, A StoVentec® Rainscreen System is a comprehensive rainscreen solution that offers aesthetic and energy upgrades. But it’s much more than that. It’s a strategic solution for retrofit applications where performance, compliance, and future readiness are top priorities.
- StoVentec® includes all major wall components engineered to work together:
- Air and water-resistive barrier
- Noncombustible mineral wool insulation
- StoVentro adjustable sub-framing
- Cladding options including fiber cement, glass, render, and masonry veneer
Plus, StoVentec® has been subjected to rigorous testing, complying with even the most stringent codes, including:
- ICC ESR 1233
- NYC 2022 fireblocking requirements
- Structural wind load, ventilation, and water penetration ratings
- Miami-Dade and Florida Product Approval
StoVentec® is so advanced and comprehensive that it supports retrofit strategies aligned with Passive House and net-zero energy goals, deep energy retrofits in urban or climate-sensitive zones, and code compliance upgrades for affordable housing, hospitals, and schools.
Below are highlights from a couple of retrofit projects where StoVentec® transformed the property.
Projects that Leveraged Rainscreens to Futureproof
Cafesjian Art Trust
A renowned Minnesota businessman and philanthropist, Gerald Cafesjian established the Cafesjian Art Trust in greater Minneapolis to share his collection of modern art with the public. When the trust prepared for a change of address, they realized that the building’s facade needed a substantial upgrade.
Mohagen Hansen Architectural Group had a vision for a brilliant, colorful building exterior. StoVentec® made it possible to achieve both the architect’s vision and create an envelope that is future-ready. The StoVentro subconstruction attached to the existing substrate with bracket connections, enabling the 1,700 square feet of StoVentec® glass panels to deliver a customized, visually compelling building facade while optimizing envelope performance.
Read the full Cafesjian Art Trust case study.
Innovation Outpost
Built on the former site of Amarillo High School, Innovation Outpost is a new hub for innovation on the campus of Amarillo College. With an eye toward creating a building that would define innovation, Parkhill, the architectural firm, and the college turned to Sto Corp. for the precise aesthetic they sought, which centered around the idea of a mirrored façade that would allow passersby to see the rich history surrounding the building by looking at the structure itself.
Ultimately, Parkhill specified StoVentec® Glass with mirrored Stopsol finish to eliminate window openings and deliver a continuous, high-performance facade system. This allowed them to flawlessly execute on their design vision, while simultaneously providing ease of installation and long-term performance, all in a single integrated system.
Read the full Innovation Outpost case study.
A Trusted Partner for Full-System Rainscreen Solutions in Retrofit Applications
Sto Corp. is the innovative world leader in building envelope solutions, including wall cladding systems, air barriers, coatings, and restoration systems. And they’ve proven time and again that they are a trusted partner for full system rainscreen solutions in retrofit applications. Sto Corp. is committed to creating solutions that enable architects to execute their vision while providing building owners with the long-term performance they expect.
One reason for the reputation as a trusted partner is that Sto also provides a range of support tools and data to facilitate the design and construction process. This support includes:
- RIB Speclink specification sections
- Fully tested system assemblies
- Technical support for design development and system integration
No matter what the challenge, Sto is a partner you can depend on.
Elevating Retrofit Outcomes with Complete Systems
Retrofits are a fact of life in our business. Without question, there are challenges when working with an existing structure. But there are also opportunities. StoVentec® systems help you to seize that opportunity, providing a clear path for modernizing aging buildings while meeting today’s code and performance standards. The system approach improves efficiency, simplifies project delivery, and supports long-term building value.
To learn more about StoVentec Rainscreen Systems, visit our website or contact a rainscreen specialist to discuss your next project.
