EIFS System
Although often called "synthetic stucco", EIFS is not stucco. EIFS is a lightweight synthetic wall cladding that
includes foam plastic insulation and thin synthetic coatings. EIFS are proprietary systems of a particular
EIFS producer and consist of specific components. EIFS are not generic products made from common separate
materials. To function properly, EIFS needs to be architecturally designed and installed as a system.
Depending on a variety of site and project specific conditions, EIFS has the potential to save money
in construction costs and contribute toward energy efficient operations and environmental responsibility
when correctly designed and executed.
To be successful, however, the system must be designed and installed correctly, and just as importantly, it must be installed
over an appropriate substrate on an appropriate wall system. Lessons learned in the past decade or so from manufacturers,
installers, and architects reinforce the need to understand how all of the parts and pieces of a total EIFS wall system work
together for energy and moisture control, aesthetics, economy, and sustainability.
Benefits
- Superior energy efficiency
- Better moisture control
- Offers much greater design flexibility than other cladding products
Common Mistakes
- Hiring unskilled or semi-skilled labor
- Using the wrong materials for the existing substrate
- Failing to install air and water barrier
- Failing to apply the adhesive vertically
- Not using the proper accessories at terminations