Clearing Up the Confusion: MCM Rainscreens and NYC's Section 718.2.6

Recent updates to New York City's building codes have sparked confusion about Metal Composite Material (MCM) and Aluminum Composite Material (ACM) rainscreen systems. Many believe these materials are now prohibited—but that's simply not the case.

What Section 718.2.6 Actually Requires

The code clarifies fire safety requirements related to fireblocking within concealed spaces in exterior wall assemblies that include combustible components. The emphasis is not on banning specific cladding types but on ensuring appropriate fireblocking measures are in place to limit fire spread within rainscreen cavities. These requirements apply even to buildings under 40 feet in height when combustible materials are used, independent of NFPA 285 multistory fire testing requirements.

Key point: These requirements apply to buildings under 40 feet in height when combustible materials are used—independent of NFPA 285 multistory fire testing requirements.

How ECO Cladding Delivers Compliant, High-Performance Solutions

Non-Combustible Sub-Framing
Our Sigma Series (stainless steel) and Alpha Series (aluminum) brackets and subframes are non-combustible, eliminating NFPA 285 triggers and inherently reducing fire spread risks.

Multi-Material Compatibility
ECO Cladding systems support ACM/MCM, metal panels, fiber cement, terracotta, stone, and ceramic claddings with a unified attachment approach—enabling mixed-material façades without compromising safety or performance.

Superior Thermal Performance
Our thermally broken bracket assemblies minimize thermal bridging, enhance continuous insulation, and reduce air/moisture barrier penetrations to meet or exceed ASHRAE 90.1 requirements.

Expert Code Support
With 25+ years of experience and founding membership in RAiNA, we help design teams navigate complex fire safety and energy compliance requirements.

Why Choose Non-Combustible Support Systems?

• Simplified Compliance: Non-combustible subframing reduces or eliminates the need for complex fireblocking within concealed cavities, simplifying code review and construction.
• Enhanced Durability & Safety: Stainless steel and aluminum systems resist corrosion, maintain structural integrity, and mitigate fire spread risks over the life of the building.
• Design Flexibility with Confidence: Seamless compatibility with popular cladding materials allows expansive creative freedom without sacrificing critical fire and thermal performance standards.

The Bottom Line

MCM rainscreens remain permitted in NYC—but proper fireblocking under Section 718.2.6 is essential when specifying combustible materials, regardless of building height.

Choosing non-combustible subframes from ECO Cladding streamlines compliance, optimizes thermal performance, and eliminates NFPA 285 concerns

Ready to discuss your next project? Connect with our team for expert guidance on achieving a safe, compliant, high-performing façade.