How many layers are in an EIFS?

There are 3 layers to EIFS, the Inner, Middle, and Exterior layers. The Inner layer is made up of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) board that is secured to the wall surface with an adhesive.

What are the layers of EIFS?

The most basic EIFS (a barrier EIFS) consists of 3 layers: A layer of foam plastic insulation; a reinforced layer that is applied onto the face of the insulation with a trowel, consisting of a fiberglass reinforcing mesh embedded in a cementitous adhesive; and, a final topcoat, or finish, which is a colored, textured ...

How thick is EIFS coating?

The total thickness of EIFS “Lamina” is generally 1/16” to 1/8” but can be thicker in areas of high-impact, by using high impact resistant mesh. Similar to stucco it is important to follow a proper design by a registered design professional or the EIFS manufacturer.

How thick is an EIFS wall?

The entire thickness of the EIFS system is typically, approximately 1/8"to 1/4", plus the thickness of the insulation board, which will vary, based upon desired R-value (insulation rating).

What is the finish coat of EIFS?

EIFS, also known as Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, is an energy saving and durable cladding consisting of scientifically developed layers of materials that coordinate to restrict the transfer of energy and eliminate the accumulation of moisture.

Stucco and EIFS Inspection Tips

Can you paint over EIFS?

Painting or recoating EIFS is normally unnecessary unless a color change is wanted or unusually stubborn stains cannot be removed. EIFS buildings should not be painted like most surfaces.

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.

What is the most common type of EIFS?

Barrier or Face Seal PB EIFS

This is the most common type of EIFS. PB = Polymer Based. Barrier means that the system is designed such that water should not get behind the exterior surface.

What is the problem 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.

Is EIFS stucco still used?

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 long does EIFS last?

A. 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.

Can you apply stucco over EIFS?

"Stucco" can be installed over foam insulation, like EIFS.

How can you tell stucco from EIFS?

Go outside and knock on an outer “stucco” wall of your home. If it sounds hollow, there is a good chance you have EIFS. If it feels like you are knocking on a brick wall, it is more likely that you are knocking on traditional “hard-coat” stucco.

What is structural EIFS?

An Exterior Insulation Finishing System (EIFS), also known as EWI (Exterior Wall Insulation Systems) or External Thermal Insulation Composite Systems (ETICS) is a type of cladding system that provides exterior walls with an insulated finished surface and waterproofing in an integrated composite material system.

What is EFIS made of?

EIFS typically consist of the following components: A water-resistive barrier (WRB) that covers the substrate. A drainage plane between the WRB and the insulation board that is most commonly achieved with vertical ribbons of adhesive applied over the WRB.

How is EIFS installed?

EIFS installation

EIFS are typically attached to the outside face of exterior walls with an adhesive (cementitious or acrylic based) or mechanical fasteners. Adhesives are commonly used to attach EIFS to gypsum board, cement board, or concrete substrates.

What is the difference between Dryvit and EIFS?

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.

Does EIFS crack?

Some EIFS laminas crack sooner than others, but they all eventually crack. The cracks are due to hygric and thermal stresses, embrittlement due to aging, and building movement. The cracks in EIFS laminas are often found initially at reveals and at window openings.

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.

What is EIFS material?

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.

How does EIFS drain?

Some EIFS contractors use special corrugated or wrinkled sheathing papers to create the drainage space, while others have vertical grooves cut into the back face of the foam insulation. In all cases, the drainage plane leads to a perforated weep flashing at the foundation to drain away any trapped water.

How do you tell if your house is EIFS?

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 synthetic stucco the same as EIFS?

Synthetic stucco is commonly referred to as Exterior Insulating and Finish System (EIFS). Homes with this exterior finish are often strikingly beautiful, offer great flexibility in home design, and provide energy savings.

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.