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.

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.

Should I remove EIFS?

Unless the adhesion of the entire cladding is compromised, during application the entire lamina became frozen, or the entire exterior has non-compliant mesh, there is no need to remove all of the EIFS (let the word “entire” rest in your memory).

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.

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.

What is EIFS Stucco and How It's SUPPOSED to Work

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 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 siding bad?

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.

Why EIFS is the best?

Low maintenance: EIFS clad buildings have superior resistance to fading, chalking, yellowing, dirt, mould and mildew. They can be easily cleaned by just hosing them down, and hardly need painting.

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.

What can I replace EIFS with?

EIFS Replacement Options: To replace existing EIFS most of our clients choose Hardieplank, or cedar siding with Cultured Stone accents.

Can you apply stucco over EIFS?

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

Why should barrier wall EIFS be avoided?

MOISTURE ISSUES

The barrier in any EIF system is the basecoat and mesh layer. This layer will not allow the penetration of moisture and functions as the moisture-intrusion-preventing workhorse of the system.

How common is EIFS stucco?

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

Is it a risk to buy stucco house?

Water entry behind the stucco can cause deterioration (rot) of the underlying wood, allowing water to wet the insulation, framing members, and drywall in our homes. This type of damage goes undetected until an inspection is performed, and consequently is all having a negative impact on the resale value of these homes.

How thick is EIFS system?

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.

Is Dryvit the same as stucco?

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.

How thick is EIFS foam?

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 are the problems 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.

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.

Can you patch EIFS?

To fix deeper gouges, we cut out a small rectangle of the EIFS — no bigger than is needed to remove the damaged area — then fill it with a patch made from EPS foam.

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.

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.

When was EIFS first used?

In the late 1950s, EPS and synthetic resin materials were first used together. In 1963, EIFS were first marketed in Europe, and in 1969, EIFS were first introduced in the United States. They were first used on commercial buildings, and later, on homes.