Is EIFS better than 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 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 more expensive than stucco?

Synthetic EIFS stucco is slightly more energy-efficient than old-school hard-coat stucco, offering better insulation, though it's more complicated and expensive to install. Hard-coat stucco holds up better to water, making it a good choice for areas with plenty of moisture.

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 many years 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.

Stucco Vs EIFS - What’s the difference?

When did EIFS stop being used?

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.

Can you pressure wash EIFS?

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.

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 can you tell the difference between stucco and 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.

Is EIFS a good product?

Today's EIFS is one of the most highly tested and well researched building cladding systems in the building industry. Additionally, it provides many advantages as an exterior cladding for commercial and residential construction.

Is EIFS waterproof?

Originally, EIFS were designed as a 'perfect barrier' system—one which provides waterproofing protection at the exterior face of the cladding. The idea of barrier cladding assemblies is to create a face-sealed façade that repels moisture to keep the building dry.

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.

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.

What causes EIFS to 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.

Can you patch EIFS?

Proper repairs can be made to EIFS in many circumstances without necessitating an entire do-over, and removing the EIFS only to reinstall it can damage the supporting wall which will make this endeavor that much more time-consuming and costly.

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 have one coat stucco?

Stucco or One Coat Stucco is not to be confused with Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) or Synthetic Stucco, as EIFS has become to be known in certain areas of the country. EIFS have the appearance of stucco. Stucco is a "natural" product, while EIFS are/is a synthetic product.

What are the 2 types of EIFS systems?

EIFS is available in two basic types: a barrier wall system or a wall drainage system.

What is wrong 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.

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 common is EIFS stucco?

Today, the EIFS market segment is less than 5 percent for residential construction.

Is EIFS flammable?

Why is EIFS flammable? While EIFS has had a reputation for moisture-related issues, it also has flammability concerns. Such concerns lead to recommendations for insurers to classify EIFS as combustible for rating purposes.

What is eephus on a roof?

Pronounced EEPHUS, the word stands for Exterior Insulation Finishing System, a non-load bearing wall treatment that resembles stucco in appearance. Unfortunately its beautiful, textured look holds dirt and nutrients that serve as fertilizer for molds, mildew and other biological growth.

What is EIFS made of?

EIFS / ETICS Components

Insulation Board - Made of polystyrene or mineral wool which is secured to the exterior wall surface.