EIFS SYSTEM

Often referred to as "synthetic stucco", EIFS or Exterior Insulation & Finishing System is a siding product that provides commercial and residential exterior walls with an insulated, finished and water resistant surface. Although called synthetic stucco, EIFS is far from Portland cement stucco.

EIFS is a lightweight product that incorporates foam plastic insulation and synthetic coatings. There are a number of different versions of EIFS but the most common or traditional EIFS is "Barrier EIFS".

EIFS is often used in a commercial capacity (offices, shopping centers, hotels and so on) but is increasingly being recommended by architects for residential properties. Although EIFS is primarily used for new construction, it can also be used on existing walls which is known as "retrofitting". Despite the obvious benefits of an upgraded look, retrofitting EIFS is also most attractive from a convenience standpoint as normal business is largely unaffected throughout.

Installation of standard Barrier EIFS is carried out by utilizing a cementicious or acrylic based bonding agent and 3 "layers". A layer of Expanded Polystyrene or (EPS), followed by a reinforcement layer of fiberglass mesh embedded in an acrylic modified basecoat, and finished with a trowelled or sprayed on top-coat. If a "drainage" system is required however, a water-resistant barrier is first installed over the substrate which is succeeded by a woven fiberglass lath.

EIFS has witnessed a fair share of controversy over the years, due to water leakage in EIFS installed homes. While EIFS is no more susceptible to water penetration that any other exterior wall cladding, critics would argue that non-water managed EIFS systems, such as Barrier EIFS do not allow water that may have entered the building envelope to escape.

The most notable downside that we have found with EIFS is simply its "soft" finish which is highly prone to damage and possible vandalism. Overall however, it is a proven system that when installed 100% correctly, will give no more problems than that of any other exterior wall finish.