SUN VALLEY MASONRY
R A I N S C R E E N C A S E S T U D I E S
PROJECT NORTH
Sun Valley Masonry specializes in complex masonry track systems, including innovative cladding and rainscreen solutions. The rainscreen system at Project North is a strong example of a high-performance, modular aluminum support system designed for efficient installation while meeting demanding architectural criteria. It demonstrates the effective use of dimension stone panels within a refined architectural design.
The project encompassed approximately 3,300 square feet of natural stone façade, with scope spanning both interior and exterior zones. The exterior application integrates a self-adhered, vapor-permeable water-resistive air barrier that fully adheres to the substrate, preventing air and water infiltration while allowing the rainscreen assembly to properly dry.
The design features 1-1/4-inch-thick panels arranged in standard dimensions with striking book-matched veining. An open-joint system was utilized, adding depth and giving the façade the appearance of floating panels. The installation relied entirely on prefabricated, dimensioned panels, each with a specifically assigned location. This approach required extremely tight as-built tolerances and a high level of coordination among all trades involved.
SOUTHSIDE PUBLIC SAFETY COMPLEX
The rainscreen system at the Southside Public Safety Complex in Tucson is a strong example of a high-performance, modular support system designed for efficient installation while meeting demanding architectural criteria. The project showcases the successful execution of large-format panel systems across a complex building envelope.
The project encompassed approximately 22,000 square feet of façade, with scope spanning both interior and exterior zones. The system integrates a track support assembly using horizontal aluminum rails and clips, paired with lightweight composite aluminum honeycomb and limestone panels featuring embedded brackets. At exterior locations, a fluid-applied, vapor-permeable elastomeric air and water barrier (AWB) was installed behind the rainscreen, curing to a monolithic, mold-resistant barrier.
A key design feature is the use of panels with integrated return legs to precisely wrap corners, canopy overhang soffits, and door and window jambs. The installation relied on a precision-based approach, with all panels fabricated from exact as-built field measurements provided directly to the fabricator’s CAD detailers. This ensured panels arrived on site dimensionally correct and ready to hang, requiring minimal field modification beyond minor integration of fixtures and penetrations. The facility is designed to house both police and fire departments, supporting strong collaboration between public safety teams.