When it comes to protecting a building from moisture and ensuring long-lasting performance, the DELTA®-DRY Rainscreen System is a solution many builders and contractors rely on. Known for its smart design and dependable moisture control, DELTA®-DRY is ideal for both new construction and retrofit projects across residential and commercial spaces.

In this in-depth guide, we explore the benefits, technical specifications, and applications of the DELTA®-DRY rainscreen system. We'll also answer common questions and help you determine if it's the right solution for your building project.

What is DELTA®-DRY Rainscreen?

DELTA®-DRY is a vapor-permeable rainscreen system engineered to manage moisture, air, and vapor in residential and commercial wall assemblies. Unlike traditional housewraps or barrier systems, DELTA®-DRY creates a true drainage and ventilation plane behind cladding materials, allowing trapped moisture to escape efficiently.

How DELTA®-DRY Works:

• It forms a protective barrier between cladding and the structure.

• Dual-sided drainage channels promote air circulation and water runoff.

• It resists bulk water intrusion while remaining vapor permeable.

By managing both outward and inward moisture movement, DELTA®-DRY helps prevent mold, rot, and costly long-term damage.

Key Benefits of DELTA®-DRY Rainscreen System

1. Superior Moisture Control

The unique design of DELTA®-DRY provides two-sided drainage and promotes drying of wet materials, even after significant water exposure. This prevents water accumulation behind siding and contributes to a healthier indoor environment.

2. Vapor Permeability

Its high vapor permeability allows wall assemblies to "breathe" while still protecting from rain and wind-driven moisture. It's an ideal rainscreen system for humid climates.

3. Durable & UV Resistant

DELTA®-DRY is made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE), offering extreme durability, mold resistance, and UV protection for up to 180 days of exposure before cladding is installed.

4. Compatibility with Various Claddings

Whether you’re installing wood, brick, stone veneer, fiber cement, or stucco, DELTA®-DRY works seamlessly.

5. Energy Efficiency & Code Compliance

Using DELTA®-DRY can contribute to better thermal performance and help meet energy codes and LEED requirements, thanks to its air-sealing properties and moisture control.

                                 

Technical Specifications of DELTA®-DRY

These specs make DELTA®-DRY one of the most robust and reliable rainscreen solutions available today.

Where Can You Use DELTA®-DRY?

Residential Applications:

DELTA®-DRY is an excellent choice for a variety of residential construction types:

• Single-family homes – Protect exterior walls from moisture, enhance energy efficiency, and increase durability.

• Multi-family buildings – Improve wall assembly performance in structures like apartments, townhomes, and condominiums.

• Cabins and cottages in high-moisture areas – Provide essential moisture protection for structures built near lakes, coastal zones, or damp environments.

Commercial Applications:

This rainscreen is also widely used in commercial construction, including:

• Office buildings – Improve long-term facade durability and reduce maintenance caused by moisture intrusion.

• Schools and institutions – Create healthier indoor environments and ensure structural longevity.

• Retail spaces – Protect storefronts and exterior designs from the damage caused by constant exposure to weather conditions.

Best Use Cases:

DELTA®-DRY is extremely versatile and works well in multiple cladding scenarios:

• Behind fiber cement siding – Creates an effective drainage plane to prevent moisture buildup.

• Under stucco or EIFS – Protects against trapped water behind non-permeable finishes.

• With wood or vinyl cladding – Ensures proper airflow and ventilation behind common residential siding materials.

• In humid, coastal, or high-precipitation zones – Designed to perform in areas prone to rain, humidity, and moisture challenges.

How to Install DELTA®-DRY Rainscreen

1. Prepare the Substrate
Before installation, make sure the sheathing surface is clean, dry, and free of debris or dust. This ensures proper adhesion and performance. Repair any damaged areas and confirm that the structure is sound and weather-tight prior to applying the membrane.

2. Unroll and Cut the Membrane
Unroll the DELTA®-DRY membrane and measure it against the wall height. Cut it to the required dimensions using a utility knife or scissors. It's best to pre-cut all pieces before fastening to save time and maintain accuracy.

3. Fasten the Membrane
Starting from the bottom of the wall, place the membrane with the textured side facing out. Use corrosion-resistant cap nails, staples, or roofing nails with washers to fasten it to the substrate. Fasten every 12 to 16 inches vertically and 6 to 8 inches horizontally, ensuring the membrane lies flat without significant bulges or wrinkles.

4. Lap Joints Properly
When installing multiple sheets, overlap the horizontal joints by at least 4 inches and vertical joints by 6 inches. Always start at the bottom and work your way up, ensuring that upper layers overlap lower ones to shed water properly. Use a roller to press down the seams and eliminate air gaps.

5. Use Flashing at Openings
Install appropriate flashing around all windows, doors, vents, and other wall penetrations to prevent water intrusion. Flashing should be installed in shingle fashion and integrate with the DELTA®-DRY to guide water out and away from the structure.

6. Install Furring or Cladding
Once the membrane is in place and flashing is complete, install vertical furring strips over the membrane to create a continuous drainage and ventilation gap. Then, attach your exterior cladding, siding, or masonry veneer as per the manufacturer's recommendations. Ensure that fasteners penetrate the furring into the structural wall.

7. Final Inspection
Check the entire wall surface for consistent overlap, proper fastener placement, and that all openings are properly sealed. Address any loose areas or gaps. At the bottom of the wall, install a bug screen or termination strip to prevent insect intrusion while allowing drainage.

Proper installation ensures the best possible performance in moisture drainage and ventilation.

DELTA®-DRY vs. Traditional Weather Barriers

DELTA®-DRY outperforms conventional wraps when it comes to long-term moisture protection and ventilation.

Why Builders and Contractors Choose DELTA®-DRY from Spycor Building Products

Spycor Building Products offers competitive pricing, fast shipping, and expert support for professionals and DIYers alike. Whether you’re working on a new build or retrofitting an existing wall assembly, we’ll help you get the right product at the right time.

• Large selection of DELTA® moisture protection systems

• Trusted by architects and building pros across the U.S.

• Fast online ordering and delivery

• Friendly U.S.-based support team

If your project demands high-performance weather protection, long-lasting durability, and superior ventilation, DELTA®-DRY is the answer. Engineered to manage moisture with precision, DELTA®-DRY creates a dedicated drainage and ventilation cavity behind exterior cladding—preventing water buildup, mold growth, and structural damage.

It’s a favorite among architects, builders, and contractors for good reason—it delivers reliable protection year-round, in any climate. Whether you’re working in high-humidity environments, facing heavy rainfall, or building in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations, DELTA®-DRY rises to the challenge.

Designed for use behind a wide range of cladding materials—from fiber cement to stone veneer—DELTA®-DRY is lightweight, easy to install, and backed by industry-leading performance standards.

Click Here to check the best rainscreen for your next build and experience the difference DELTA®-DRY can make for your wall system.