What is EIFS? (Exterior Insulating and Finishing System)

This exterior wall and finish system incorporates the following components:

1. Insulation board, fastened mechanically and / or with adhesive;
2. Base coat with reinforcement typically- alkaline –resistant glass fiber mesh), typically adhered to the base coat;
3. Surface finish, sometimes with a primer, adhered to the base coat;
4. Joint treatments, drainage accessories, seals and sealant may also form part of the system.

Note: It is Important to note that EIFS do not include components forming the substrate to which the cladding is applied ( i.e. plywood walls).  The substrate must be compatible with the EIFS and properly deigned and installed for the EIFS system to perform acceptably.

EIFS are often applied to substrates treated with moisture air and/or vapor barrier.  Barriers that are compatible are provided or recommended by the manufacture.

History of EIFS

EIFS evolved in Europe when conventional cementitious stucco was applied over insulation. The advent of polymer chemistry in post war Europe led to the development of foamed plastic insulation and modern acrylic stucco coatings that formed the “ laminae” in lieu of the traditional stucco. Basically the systems are PB ( polymer based ) using a mixture of cement and polymers to provide both durability and flexibility.

EIFS was first introduced in North American the early 1970’s and are now used by architects and contractors on commercial shopping malls, office buildings, high rises and energy efficient designed green homes.

EIFS Design and Aesthetic Advantages.

Engineering, Practical Advantages of EIFS Designed systems include:

1. Continuity of thermal barrier:

EIFS can provide a continuos exterior layer of insulation for the building envelope.

This can be designed to protect the building and back up wall structures from temperature extremes that promote undesirable thermal movements and to protect against moisture damage from condensation.

A continuous thermal barrier helps avoid THERMAL BRIDGING and takes advantage of thermal mass (heat storage). This can improve energy performance, promoting savings in initial and operating costs for both heating and cooling equipment.

2. Light Weight:

 EIFS have a low–weight in comparison with masonry or concrete cladding.  This can reduce structure costs.

3. Water Penetration resistance:

Provides good resistance to rain water penetration.  Rain screen designs address water in the wall concerns.

4. Flexibility

In comparison to rigid cladding systems, many EIFS are relatively flexible and better able to accommodate substrate flexure and other movements without cracking. Years after installation the finish coat can be repainted easily for aseptic color changes.

5. Reparability

Localized damage or defects in EIFS can be easily repaired. The appearance
Can typically be restored or renewed by reapplying the finish or painting.

6. RETROFIT APPLICATIONS

Lightweight EIFS can often be applied directly over existing cladding wall systems.  This can be designed to:

• Update and improve appearance.
• Increase thermal performance
• Correct problems with rain penetration
• Improve resistance to condensation or entrapped moisture
• Protect the structure and existing cladding from deterioration.