Is EIFS and Dryvit the same?

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.

Is Dryvit considered EIFS?

Dryvit Systems

Continuous Insulation System: The continuous insulation system is an EIFS stucco system that utilizes foam insulation on the outside of the building to create an airtight barrier that prevents temperature fluctuation inside your household.

When did they stop using EIFS?

EIFS has been in use since the 1960s in North America, first on masonry buildings, but since the 1990s the majority on wood-framed buildings.

What is EIFS Dryvit?

EIFS is an acronym for “Exterior Insulation and Finish System.” Many people refer to it as “Dryvit” or mistakenly as “stucco.” Dryvit Systems, Inc. is manufacturer of EIFS products. This is a generic trademark descriptor, similar to Kleenex, which is a manufacturer of tissues.

Are stucco and Dryvit the same thing?

Dryvit stucco is actually the name of a stucco manufacturer, not an actual stucco system specifically. Dryvit is the name of the stucco company and they have different stucco systems including 3 coat stucco systems, EIFS systems, decorative systems and more.

Discussing Sto, Dryvit, EIFS and Stucco

What is the most common problem with Dryvit stucco?

The most common problems with Dryvit stucco are caulking and sealing issues that go unnoticed over time. This leads to serious mold issues that can get into the building structure and cause costly damage, as well as causing medical issues for residents.

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.

How long does Dryvit last?

Dryvit EIFS are designed to last for the typical design life of a building. The actual longevity on any specific building will depend mainly on the building maintenance program. Some EIFS facades date back 50-60 years.

What is the fake stucco called?

Synthetic stucco is commonly referred to as Exterior Insulating and Finish System (EIFS).

Can you power wash Dryvit?

Because Dryvit is an insulation system, the external coating is more susceptible to damage than traditional building materials. Use a soft-bristled scrub brush to apply a biodegradable detergent to the walls of your building. You may also use a power-washer to remove heavy dirt and grime.

What's wrong 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.

Do people 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.

How do you know if you have EIFS on stucco?

The easiest way to identify synthetic stucco (EIFS) is by touching the material with your bare hand. When you touch the wall where the stucco is installed, it will feel like plastic. You can also knock gently on the wall. If it sounds hollow and thin, you have EIFS on your home.

Is Dryvit waterproof?

A. The Dryvit Weatherlast products include a waterproof elastomeric coating and primer for use over exterior concrete, masonry, stucco and exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS).

Can you paint over Dryvit stucco?

Acrylic latex paint is the best for using on Dryvit stucco as it is easy to apply and you can clean the same by using water and a mild detergent. When used properly, acrylic latex paint provide the stucco surface with a good gloss and color.

Can you pressure wash EIFS stucco?

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.

Why do insurance companies not like EIFS?

A great deal of insurance coverage disputes arose over the years due to the tendency of EIFS to trap water behind a building's walls. As a result, many insurers implemented an EIFS exclusion in commercial general liability policies barring coverage for property damage that results when EIFS is used in construction.

Where is EIFS banned?

North Carolina has banned the so-called "barrier" variety of EIFS in new home construction, and Georgia plans to do the same in the fall, according to the NAHB.

How do you maintain Dryvit?

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. Refer to Dryvit's cleaning guidelines (DS152 at www.dryvit.com) before cleaning.

How do you fix a crack in Dryvit?

Repairing Hairline Dryvit Cracks

To apply the patch, cut through the wall's lamina to expose a uniformly-sized area of insulation that is a bit larger than the cracked area. Sand the area with a belt sander to remove the finish before removing any damaged foam. Mix Dryvit's Rapid Patch, applying it with a trowel.

Does Dryvit need to be painted?

Dryvit Components.

If the paint cannot be removed with proper cleaning techniques, it will be necessary to refinish or paint over it.

What is the problem with synthetic stucco?

Severe Synthetic Stucco Problems

Delamination, which is synthetic stucco detaching from your home's exterior. Rotting of wood beams and trim. Mold and mildew growth, both on interior walls and beneath on the home's base walls. Infestation of termites and other moisture seeking insects.

Can EIFS stucco be painted?

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.

Does EIFS use wire mesh?

Durability of EIFS

Within the several layers and materials required for an efficient EIFS cladding is a durable mesh material. The Exterior Design Institute recommends a high-impact, reinforcing mesh that is double-strand, interwoven glass fiber.