Rain Screens

Rainscreens are more than just a design trend — they’re a proven building envelope strategy for protecting structures and extending the life of exterior walls. But the system is only as reliable as the material you choose. That’s where Black Locust comes in.

We supply architectural-grade Black Locust lumber specifically milled for rainscreen cladding applications. Known for its natural rot resistance, dimensional stability, and chemical-free durability, Black Locust is one of the best-performing hardwoods on the market — without relying on tropical imports or modified wood. Whether you're designing a high-performance envelope for a modern home, commercial building, or institutional project, Black Locust offers a sustainable, long-lasting cladding solution that outperforms cedar, thermally modified wood, and even Ipe.

Our rainscreen boards are precision-milled in custom profiles such as shiplap, tongue & groove, or open-joint slats, and offered in a range of widths (typically ¾" thick, with 4" to 6" face widths) for maximum design flexibility and technical alignment with ventilated façade systems. Boards are graded according to NHLA-aligned Premium and Select standards, ensuring clean lines, minimal movement, and long-term structural performance.

Black Locust rainscreens don’t just look good — they function beautifully. With a properly detailed air gap (typically ⅜"–¾"), you’ll get ventilation, drainage, and thermal stability that protect your structure for decades. Combine that with the wood’s tight grain, low shrinkage, and Class A durability, and you’ve got a rainscreen that works as hard as it looks.

 Profile Options & Dimensions

We offer a range of custom rainscreen profiles to match your design intent and performance goals. Each profile is milled from Premium or Select-grade Black Locust and carefully dried, machined, and inspected for consistent quality and dimensional stability. Whether you're after a clean modern look or a traditional façade, we can tailor the profile to suit your needs.

Common Profiles We Offer:

• Shiplap – Clean horizontal lines, excellent weather resistance, and easy installation. Available with square or beveled edges for different shadowline effects.
  
  
• Tongue & Groove (T&G) – Ideal for tighter seals and vertical applications. Recommended for both contemporary and rustic aesthetics.
  
  
• Open-Joint / Slatted Rainscreens – Maximizes ventilation and creates a bold architectural rhythm. Works well with hidden fasteners and underlying UV-resistant barriers.
  
  

Standard Dimensions:

• Thickness: ¾" (true dimension)
  
  
• Widths: 4", 5", or 6" face widths depending on profile
  
  
• Lengths: Typically available in random lengths (6’–12’), with fixed lengths available for large or custom orders
  
  
• Reveal & Gap Recommendations: Designed to align with ventilated rainscreen best practices, including a ⅜" to ¾" air cavity for drainage and airflow
  
  

We can also work with your team to create project-specific profiles, ensuring proper integration with furring systems, fasteners, and envelope details. Every board is kiln-dried and milled in the USA to maintain the highest standard of quality and compatibility with North American construction methods.