Durable Drainage

Why It Matters

The integrated design reduces labor time and material complexity, lowering overall project costs for rainscreen assemblies. Its U.S. launch expands the pool of high‑performance, LVL‑based cladding supports available to American contractors.

Key Takeaways

• HighFlow battens integrate drainage and airflow in a single profile.
• Made from treated LVL, rated 8.2 lb/ft² load capacity.
• Simplifies rainscreen installation over exterior insulation.
• Highwood Timber launches product in U.S., $54 per 12‑ft batten.

Pulse Analysis

Rainscreen systems have become a cornerstone of modern building envelopes, protecting structures from moisture intrusion while allowing the wall assembly to dry naturally. Traditional methods rely on separate furring strips and vent spaces, which can be labor‑intensive and prone to installation errors. By embedding both drainage channels and a sloped top edge directly into the batten, HighFlow streamlines this process, ensuring consistent airflow and water shedding without the need for additional components.

The HighFlow battens are fabricated from treated laminated veneer lumber (LVL), delivering the strength and dimensional stability required for exterior applications. Rated to support approximately 8.2 lb per square foot, they comfortably exceed the weight of common cladding materials such as fiber‑cement siding, which averages 2.5‑3 lb per square foot. The milled profile not only simplifies installation over exterior insulation but also provides a flatter, more uniform surface for attaching cladding, reducing the risk of warping or misalignment that can compromise weather resistance.

Highwood Timber’s entry into the U.S. market, highlighted at the International Builders' Show, signals a growing demand for engineered wood products that combine performance with ease of use. Priced at roughly $54 for a 12‑foot batten, the product is positioned competitively against conventional lumber while offering added value through its integrated drainage features. As builders seek faster, more reliable construction methods, HighFlow battens could become a standard component in residential and commercial rainscreen projects, driving efficiency and improving long‑term building durability.