How long does EIFS cladding last?
If properly maintained, the cladding will last the life of the building. Initial EIFS walls were installed in the late 1960’s and most are still in service as of this writing (2014). Do insurance companies cover EIFS projects?
Do people still use EIFS?
Answer: Yes, people still use EIFS. Its use suddenly stopped for a while in 1991 though. But then people started using it again over time. The main reason for its comeback is the range of designs you can get with EIFS. Question: How long will EIFS last? Answer: It’s currently unclear how long they can last.
What does EIFS mean?
Within This Page. Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) is an exterior wall cladding that utilizes rigid insulation boards on the exterior of the wall sheathing with a plaster appearance exterior skin. EIFS in its current basic form was developed in West Germany in the 1960s and introduced in the United States in 1969 by Dryvit.
What is exterior insulation and finish System EIFS?
Introduction Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) is an exterior wall cladding that utilizes rigid insulation boards on the exterior of the wall sheathing with a plaster appearance exterior skin. EIFS in its current basic form was developed in West Germany in the 1960s and introduced in the United States in 1969 by Dryvit.
When did builders stop using EIFS?
Future homeowners loved the look of the EIFS houses. The recession of 1990 was the only thing that slowed down the business as the EIFS industry's sales dropped for the first time in 1991.
How do you maintain EIFS?
Cleaning EIFS should be done by a skilled professional. The best way to clean EIFS is to use high water volume coupled with low water pressure and non-abrasive cleaners. Do not use caustic chemicals or abrasive cleaning techniques, which will permanently damage the finish.
Do builders still use EIFS?
Yet today, EIFS are still around. About 100 million square feet of EIFS went on new and remodeled homes last year, rivaling any other siding material.
When was EIFS a problem?
EIFS became very popular in the 1980's and experienced a significant number of serious failures, almost all related to rain penetration.
Can you power wash EIFS?
A: First of all, do not use a pressure washer on a synthetic stucco surface. This type of finish, known as an exterior insulation finish system or EIFS, is a barrier-type system.
How often should you paint EIFS?
The systems also are easy to maintain. EIFS rarely need painting. Most are specially formulated with a 100-percent-acrylic binder, which helps EIFS resist fading, chalking and yellowing. As a result, most systems tend to maintain their original appearance over time.
How much does it cost to replace EIFS?
EIFS Stucco Repair It costs between $30 and $50 per sq. ft. for EIFS stucco repair.
What is better EIFS or stucco?
The fiberglass layer provides more durability, even against hard blows from weather. EIFS is notably lighter than traditional stucco, however. It is 80-percent less heavy than stucco, but it has a higher R-value, coming in between 4 and 5.6, which is notably higher than the 0.20 R-value of regular stucco.
Are Dryvit and EIFS the same thing?
Having a house with EIFS, also known as Dryvit, isn't the end of the world. EIFS isn't a disease; it's synthetic stucco. And even though your house may have been built using it, with knowledge and proper maintenance everything can be just fine. EIFS is an Exterior Insulation and Finish System.
How do you know if EIFS is bad?
The most common problems with EIFS homes:The lack of flashing at wall and roof intersections.The lack of maintenance by homeowners.Improper detailing of trim around windows and doors.Improperly installed decks.Failing or missing caulk at windows, doors and penetrations.Lack of knowledge of the product by homeowners.
How do I fix a crack in EIFS?
0:532:06reStore repair of Surface Cracks in EIFS - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe first step is to gently scrape or brush away any loose finish or base coat material. This can beMoreThe first step is to gently scrape or brush away any loose finish or base coat material. This can be done with your margin trowel and the stiff brush. Remove all loose material.
Can you put siding over EIFS?
One of the major perks of using fiber cement siding boards is that their trim can easily be installed over built-out sections of EIFS-covered exteriors.
Does EIFS need to be painted?
Unlike wood, stucco and other siding materials, EIFS rarely need painting. Most EIFS systems are specifically formulated with 100% acrylic binder, which gives EIFS superior resistance to fading, chalking and yellowing. As a result, the systems tend to maintain their original appearance over time.
What are the problems with EIFS?
The problems with barrier EIFS cladding all stem from water intrusion. These problems include moisture accumulation in the wall cavity, subsequent wood damage and, in more advanced cases, mold growth and the infestation of pests such as carpenter ants or termites.
Can you paint over EIFS?
On a side note, EIFS can be painted just like traditional stucco. Depending on the characteristics and appearance wanted, our professional commercial paint contractors use either top-quality acrylic latex paints or elastomeric coating systems.
Is EIFS the same as stucco?
What is EIFS? Unlike traditional stucco that utilizes natural ingredients and mesh, External Insulation and Finishing Systems (EIFS) stucco uses layers that add in synthetic materials. The first layer is comprised of a polystyrene foam board. Then, that is followed by a fiberglass mesh and a finishing coat.
What is EIFS board?
EIFS has a primary base coat where a finish coating is applied on an EPS board. That board is directly connected to the sheathing with the help of fasteners or adhesives.
How long do sandboxes last?
Answer: It’s currently unclear how long they can last. But, there are known structures that are 50-60 years old. In the end, it still depends on the maintenance.
Is EIFS a risk?
EIFS has a high risk of error when you apply it. The application process is also very time-consuming and complicated. So, you’ll definitely need a professional for this.
Is EIFS better than stucco?
EIFS has much higher insulation than Stucco. It’s also more flexible and has a much lesser chance of cracking. Your walls will most likely not crack until it starts giving out.
Is EIFS more complicated than Stucco?
EIFS has a more complicated application process. You’ll also have to spend a long time behind it. As a result, Stucco takes the lead in this section.
Is stucco siding cheaper than EIFs?
Traditional stucco is very beautiful when you use it as a siding. It’s very cheap compared to EIFS. You’ll find applying EIFS a very expensive job. You’ll also face difficulties customizing it.
Do EIFs last forever?
If you want to choose EIFS, you’ll get a wide variety of choices. Your walls most probably won’t last forever. But, these designs will cost you a lot.
What damage does EIFS do?
Damage from ropes, cables, etc. to EIFS parapet tops.
Why are EIFs so popular?
The popularity of EIFS comes from its insulating qualities to reduce thermal loads on the exterior building wall and the light weight, low cost, and the ability of the system to be sculpted into shapes and patterns to achieve different aesthetic effects . The thermal performance of the exterior insulation is based on the thickness ...
What is EIFS insulation?
The most common type of EIFS is the polymer based (PB) system. This system has a nominally 1/16 inch thick reinforced base coat applied to the insulation prior to application of the finish coat. The insulation typically consists of closed expanded polystyrene (EPS) and can be either adhesively or mechanically attached to the sheathing. The second and less common type of EIFS is the polymer modified (PM) system. This system has a nominally 3/16 inch to 1/2 inch thick reinforced base coat applied to the insulation prior to application of the finish coat. The insulation typically consists of extruded expanded polystyrene (XPS) and is mechanically attached to the sheathing and or wall structure.
What is EIFS cladding?
Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) is an exterior wall cladding that utilizes rigid insulation boards on the exterior of the wall sheathing with a plaster appearance exterior skin. EIFS in its current basic form was developed in West Germany in the 1960s and introduced in the United States in 1969 by Dryvit. The Dryvit system consisted of expanded polystyrene (bead board) attached adhesively to the sheathing and covered with a lamina composed of a modified cement base coat with woven glass fiber reinforcement and a textured colored finish coat. Over the years, variations of this system have been developed.
What are the major resources for information regarding EIFS and its proper use?
Major resources for information regarding EIFS and its proper use are manufacturer's catalogs containing product description and standards, specifications, details, and installation instructions; the Exterior Insulation Members Association (EIMA); and ASTM International.
What are construction conditions of EIFs that should be detailed if they exist on the building?
In general, construction conditions of the EIFS that should be detailed if they exist on the building include terminations, openings, joints, objects mounted onto the surface and special treatments to the surface.
What is EIFS wall?
EIFS is available in two basic types: a barrier wall system or a wall drainage system. Barrier EIFS wall systems rely primarily on the base coat portion of the exterior skin to resist water penetration. Therefore, all other components of the exterior wall must either be barrier type systems or be properly sealed and flashed to prevent water ...
Prefabrication
Schedule certainty, cost predictability, increased safety, improved QC / QA, reduction of RFI’s and change orders, reduction of construction waste, limited on-site crew size for installation; just to name a few. To learn more about Sto’s prefabrication solution, Sto Panel Technology®, visit our page dedicated to prefabrication.
Rainscreen
Rainscreens are considered the first line of defense against the effects of moisture, especially with water absorptive claddings. Rainscreens provide a gap between the air and moisture barrier and the siding/cladding. This moderate gap can be as small as 1/2″ to allow for proper drainage and drying.
Drainable EIFS
No, EIFS is a light weight versatile wall cladding. Stucco weighs more than EIFS and requires joints to control cracking. Learn more in our systems overview page.
Stucco and Cement Board Stucco
Sto offers a number of fully-tested, warranted StoPowerwall® stucco systems and StoQuik® cement board stucco systems based on your performance requirements that include a StoGuard® air and moisture barrier component, options for a drainage mat, additional fortification layer for crack prevention, and a wide variety of aesthetic facade surfaces.
Specialty Systems
Yes, Sto offers a variety of wall systems that meet the stringent Miami-Dade County requirements for impact resistance, resistance to air leakage and water penetration , and wind load resistance. Click here to learn more.
Restoration
Yes. Even if the cracks are determined to be structurally safe and non-moving, they still allow for the ingress of water and water vapor. This ingress leads to much larger problems like corrosion, mold, and a lack of overall building performance. Sto offers a number of solutions for crack repair. Visit our website to learn more.
Air & Moisture Barriers
Common building materials that are air barriers are gypsum wallboard, plywood, and concrete. Because these materials have joints and seams, another material is generally applied over them to form a continuous air barrier. Polyolefin housewraps, “peel and stick” membranes, and fluid-applied products such as those furnished by Sto Corp.
What is EIFS surface?
EIFS surface is an elastomeric or silicone-based coating; regular latex paint will not adhere properly and peeling may result. Some coatings can substantially change the water vapor transmission characteristics of the EIFS and trap moisture inside. Solvent-based coatings can dissolve the EPS insulation board and cause delamination of the outer layers of the EIFS.
Is an EIFS inspector candid?
Many Home Inspectors are not so candid. Beware of so-called "EIFS Inspectors" who are not well-versed or certified in EIFS or other claddings. Ask questions such as:
Do EIFs inspectors make repairs?
Unlike some self-certified EIFS inspectors, we do not make repairs and we are not affiliated with any repair company. We would consider this an obvious conflict of interest. Inspectors who also are repair contractors may overstate problems with your EIFS so that their bill can be inflated.
Does EIFS do a home inspection?
EIFS & Stucco Inspection & Forensic Services does not provide total typical home inspections. However, we have been recommended by professional home inspectors to assist them with the exterior cladding portion of their examinations. To their credit, they acknowledged to their clients that they were not fully knowledgeable regarding the nuances of the EIFS, MSV or stucco.
What is EIFS insulation?
Early EIFS used a face-sealed approach (defined later). Face-sealed exterior insulation and finishing systems (EIFS) are inherent ly defective and unfit for use as an exterior cladding system where moisture sensitive components are used without a provision for drainage or in locations and assemblies without adequate drying. Most EIFS of the past were face-sealed systems that by definition had no provision for drainage. The typical system also contains moisture sensitive materials. Specifically, the following moisture sensitive components are used: exterior gypsum board, oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood sheathing, metal or wood studs, fiberglass cavity insulation and interior gypsum board sheathing ( Figure 2 ).#N#Drained EIFS are significantly different from face-sealed systems in that, by definition, they have a provision for drainage ( Figure 3 ). Unlike face-sealed perfect barrier systems such systems can be successfully used as an exterior cladding system in essentially all climates and exposures. Drainable EIFS are not subject to the same limitations of use as face-sealed or barrier systems. In fact, drainable EIFS are among the most robust and advanced moisture control assemblies available.
Why are EIFs defective?
This is why EIFS are inherently defective and unfit for use as exterior cladding systems where moisture sensitive components are used without a provision for drainage or in locations without adequate drying. Adequate drying will occur in locations with high drying potentials – locations where, in essence, it does not rain much.
Why are face sealed EIFs flawed?
This Digest explains the reasons why face-sealed EIFS are fundamentally flawed as cladding systems for most applications, and describes how drained EIFS can be used successfully in almost all climate zones and exposures. Cracks, lamina deterioration, and movement joints are also discussed.
What is EIFS cladding?
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) are a relatively new cladding system that combine a finish with a layer of exterior insulation. The finish is comprised of polymeric (organic) bonded aggregate and cement reinforced with a glass mesh. Stucco is a cladding made of inorganic-cement (Portland cement and/or lime) bonded sand or earth used for thousands of years. Although these two claddings may look the same, they perform very differently.
What is the wetting mechanism of EIFs?
The principal wetting mechanism for EIFS assemblies is rain. Just as all cladding systems, EIFS are sensitive to the frequency and severity of rain. The amount of rainfall deposited on a surface determines the type of approach necessary to control rain. Figure 4 is a map of annual rainfall for North America. This map defines four rain exposure regions based on annual rainfall on a horizontal surface: extreme, high, moderate and low. The rain that must be controlled by walls is rain on a vertical surface. The amount of rain actually deposited on a wall can vary dramatically (by a factor of ten) in a given climate zone depending on height, exposure, overhangs, and surface details. In short, the climate and the architecture defines the amount of rain exposure. For all but the lowest exposures (e.g., the wall of a one storey building with a wrap around porch) face-sealed approached cannot be recommended.
Where are cracks in EIFS laminas found?
Photograph 2: Cracks in EIFS laminas are often found initially at reveals and at window openings.
Can drainable EIFs be used as barrier?
Unlike face-sealed perfect barrier systems such systems can be successfully used as an exterior cladding system in essentially all climates and exposures. Drainable EIFS are not subject to the same limitations of use as face-sealed or barrier systems .
What is EIFS in construction?
An EIFS is an insulative, multi-layered wall cladding system used in all types of building construction and consists of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) insulation adhered or attached to an approved substrate, basecoat reinforced with a fiberglass mesh, and an architectural finish.
What is EIFS cladding?
EIFS is an energy-efficient cladding that is lightweight and flexible. It can easily be formed to execute dramatic architectural details like reveals, corbels, quoins, etc. A wide range of finishes allows the designer to emulate brick, stone, precast concrete and plaster details.
What is overcladding in EIFS?
Overcladding is a method by which the existing EIFS wall can be changed aesthetically and renewed. The wall can receive new architectural details (i.e., bandings, cornice, quoins build outs or reveals, etc.) or an entirely new finish.
Can you overclad an EIFS?
Absolutely not . "Overcladding" can easily be added to/applied over the existing EIFS textured surface. This application would require first cleaning the existing EIFS surface, skim coating it smooth with reinforced NCB then apply the selected finish and/or specialty EIFS shape(s).
Does Dryvit require training?
There is no specific training required. However, Dryvit expects, at a minimum that this firm be thoroughly familiar with DryvitCARE, EIF systems and the forensic investigation of these systems.
Can EIFs be cleaned with detergent?
DryvitCARE cleaning procedures are specifically outlined in our DS498 document. In general, EIFS can be cleaned using an appropriate detergent based cleaner. There are a number of cleaners that have been developed by others specifically for EIFS that can be utilized.
Can dryvit be used to prevent moisture from moving through EIFs?
Absolutely not. All the Dryvit materials are vapor permeable and will not prevent moisture vapor from moving through the EIFS assembly. A Water Vapor Transmission Analysis can be performed, if there are any unusual conditions that need consideration.
What happened after the introduction of EIFs?
About 10 years after the introduction of EIFS, home inspectors were starting to find noticeable issues with EIFS cladding, like water damage. The damages had even permeated some of the framing. Multiple EIFS homeowners were outraged that they now had an unplanned expense, and the housing market took a hit due to properties with questionable stucco siding.
What is Synthetic EIFS Stucco?
Synthetic stucco is different from traditional stucco and is also known as Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS). This style of stucco was created in Europe years ago since it provided more building flexibility and enhanced waterproofing. Around 1970, the American company called Dryvit introduced EIFS to American contractors, and it has gained popularity ever since. EIFS technology has advanced throughout the year, but the basic components of EIFS stucco remains the same.
Does EIFS breathe?
Since EIFS does not breathe, water that gets trapped inside cannot escape.
EIFS vs Stucco: Notable Differences
- Before we get into the details of the differences, let’s check out the key differences first. These differences will help you get a better understanding at a glance. Let’s get to it then:
EIFS vs Stucco: Detailed Differences
- The detailed differences will include materials, breathability, and application. We’ll break down every little difference for you. Now, without any further ado, let’s get right into it-
Final Verdict
- Choosing between traditional stucco and EIFS is your personal choice. All the facts are right in front of your eyes. Choose whichever you think is the right one for you. Because for us, it’s a tie. Both of these building materials are good in their own ways. If you want to choose EIFS, you’ll get a wide variety of choices. Your walls most probably won’t last forever. But, these designs will co…
FAQs
- Question: Do people still use EIFS? Answer:Yes, people still use EIFS. Its use suddenly stopped for a while in 1991 though. But then people started using it again over time. The main reason for its comeback is the range of designs you can get with EIFS. Question: How long will EIFS last? Answer:It’s currently unclear how long they can last. But, th...
Conclusion
- Well, this is all that we have on EIFS vs stucco. They both have their advantages and disadvantages. But you need to align that with your needs to choose one. Just choose whichever feels right for you. Good Luck!
Introduction
- Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) is an exterior wall cladding that utilizes rigid insulation boards on the exterior of the wall sheathing with a plaster appearance exterior skin. EIFS in its current basic form was developed in West Germany in the 1960s and introduced in the United States in 1969 by Dryvit. The Dryvit system consisted of...
Description
- The most common type of EIFS is the polymer based (PB) system. This system has a nominally 1/16 inch thick reinforced base coat applied to the insulation prior to application of the finish coat. The insulation typically consists of closed expanded polystyrene (EPS) and can be either adhesively or mechanically attached to the sheathing. The second and less common type of EIF…
Fundamentals
- All EIFS are proprietary systems and the components of the system should not be modified beyond the limits stated in the manufacturer's literature. The design of the interface with other components of the wall system is the responsibility of the wall designer. Details should make clear the design of the final construction. If necessary, the sequence by which the wall assembl…
Details
- Please see the details section and consult the manufacturers web pages referenced in this section for additional information regarding this topic. Due, in part, to issues and concerns related to the integration of EIFS with surrounding wall systems and wall penetrations in both residential and multi-family, commercial-scale construction, the EIFS industry and its members have develo…
Emerging Issues
- Emerging issues in the EIFS industry include: 1. Drained EIFS 2. Improved Interface Detailing for Exterior Wall Penetrations 3. Developing Field Test Standards for Water Penetration Resistance (ASTM)
Relevant Codes and Standards
- There are virtually no limitations on the locations where EIFS can be used as an exterior wall cladding beyond those imposed by codes. These occurrences of water infiltration have also led to many code restrictions on the use of EIFS. These code restrictions are evolving and changing as further testing is developed and implemented. Most codes require a code evaluation report for t…
Additional Resources
- Publications
1. CMHC Best Practice Guide—EIFS - Organizations/Manufacturers
1. EIFS Industry Manufacturers Association (EIMA) 2. Dryvit Systems, Inc., an EIFS manufacturer. 3. Parex, an EIFS manufacturer. 4. Senergy, an EIFS manufacturer. 5. Sto Corporation, an EIFS manufacturer. 6. The EIFS Instituteprovides consumer information about EIFS.