EIFS
Plastering
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems
(EIFS) are multi-layered exterior wall
systems that are used on both commercial
buildings and homes. They provide energy
efficiency and design flexibility.
Typical EIFS Components:
- Insulation board, made of expanded
polystyrene (EPS), which is secured
to the exterior wall surface with a
specially formulated adhesive and/or
mechanical fasteners.
- A durable, water-resistant base coat
which is applied on top of the
insulation board and reinforced with
fiberglass mesh for added strength.
- An attractive and durable finish coat,
which is colorfast and crack-
resistant.
Maintenance
- Unlike wood, stucco and other siding
materials, EIFS rarely need
painting.
- EIFS have excellent resistance to
dirt, mildew and mold. Should the
surface ever become soiled, it can
usually be cleaned by hosing it down.
- The systems are designed to be very
flexible, which makes them highly
crack resistant.
- Periodic maintenance should include
thorough checking of the flashing
and caulking to ensure that the building
envelope remains watertight.
Energy Efficiency
- EIFS reduces air infiltration, stabilize
the interior environment and reduce
energy consumption.
- EIFS adds to the “R-value”
of a home or building. Most EIFS use
insulation board with an R-value of
R-4 to R-5.6 per inch of EPS.
Design Flexibility
- EIFS come in virtually limitless colors
and a wide variety of textures,
and can be fashioned into virtually
any shape or design.
- Skilled applicators can create all
sorts of architectural detailing that
would often be cost-prohibitive using
conventional construction---
cornices, arches, columns, keystones,
quoins, special moldings,
and decorative accents.
Installation
- EIFS are definitely not do-it-yourself
wall claddings. They should be
installed by experienced applicators
who have completed an EIFS
manufacturer’s training program.
- EIMA (EIFS industry member’s
association) offers training manuals
And training programs to applicators.
The best way to ensure a high
Quality EIFS job is to rely on members
of the EIMA.
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