EIFS Features

Exterior Insulation & Finishing Systems (EIFS) can be used in various applications. However, they are most commonly mistaken for more traditional materials like stucco or stone due to their luxurious appearance. Any desired color can be used to create a finish for EIFS, with several different textures to pick from. The material’s adaptability means it can be made to resemble brick or classic stucco. With EIFS, it’s possible to create almost any profile.

Columns, moldings, and arches are just some of the architectural aspects that may be made with EIFS that would be prohibitively expensive to build with any other method. You can use fiberglass mesh to achieve a no-crack surface cement and paint.

Trained EIFS contractors use computers to produce the designs. From there, they use machines to cut the foam. This is then affixed to the wall, covered with an EIFS base coat, EIFS mesh, and a finish coat.

Exterior insulation and finishing systems (EIFS) are very good at keeping the heat in. The system works by covering and protecting the front of the building. Because of this, energy costs are cut by as much as 55% compared to other ways of building. Some ways of insulating close off where air can get out, while others leave gaps. The walls of a house can let a lot of energy out, whether it’s heat or cold. When this is fixed, the homeowner will save much money on energy.

 

If you want to read MoistureBond Warranty’s study about how much energy EIFS houses use, click on the link.

Energy Usage Analysis-EIFS vs. Brick © 2001 MoistureBond Warranty

There is a low level of upkeep required with Exterior Insulation & Finishing Systems. They rarely become dirty or produce mold. If it does, it is easy to clean by hosing with water. Paint does not need to be reapplied as the materials possess fade resistance. This is a big advantage of other types of construction. Also the color cannot be rubbed or scratched off as it is mixed into the finish coat.

When installed by a properly skilled contractor, EIFS provides excellent resistance to water. A drainage system must be installed to prevent water from pooling against a wall and causing structural damage. When it does occur, it often affects only a limited region and can be easily fixed by an expert. The flashing and sealing should be inspected as part of regular building maintenance, and any damage should also be fixed immediately.

Due to shifts in temperature and humidity, cracking in brick and concrete structures is a common problem. EIFS has a high degree of flexibility, so this isn’t really an issue. The layer of foam and mesh stretch, and the base coat and finish coat contain polymers that allow the exterior to flex.