What are EIFS?
Exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) are multi-component exterior wall systems which generally consist of: 1) an insulation board; 2) an adhesive and/or mechanical attachment of the insulation board to the substrate or existing wall surface (e.g., plywood); 3) a base coat reinforced with glass fiber mesh on the face of the insulation board; and 4) a finish coat which protects the entire system and can be applied in a wide variety of colors and textures to create virtually any "look" imaginable, including that of stucco or natural stone.
What advantages do EIFS have over other building materials?
EIFS have two major advantages over other building materials: maximum energy efficiency and unmatched design flexibility. EIFS bring insulation to exterior walls to provide an unbroken layer of insulation, which significantly reduces air infiltration. EIFS offer tremendous design versatility as well, introducing new shapes, colors and textures to the field of home design -- in a durable, crack-resistant surface that requires minimal upkeep.
How much insulation value will EIFS provide for a home?
The "R-value", or ability of a material to resist the flow of heat, is a measure of insulating power. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation. An EIFS' R-value is relative to the thickness of the insulation board and other factors, but typically adds between R-4 and R-5.6 to a home. In combination with standard wall cavity insulation, this extra layer can have a significant effect on energy savings.
How are EIFS exteriors made?
EIFS can be field-applied or prefabricated. With the latter, architectural shapes -- such as quoins, keystones and arches -- can be formed with insulation board and attached to the wall by skilled EIFS applicators. Once this is done, the home's exterior is completed by applying the base coat, reinforcing mesh and finish coat over the entire insulation board surface.
Are the EIFS used in residential and commercial buildings the same?
There are two basic classes of EIFS: PB and PM. The PB (Polymer Based) system - which has a base coat of varying thickness with a minimum base coat application of 1/16-inch (1.6 mm) - is used for most commercial buildings and homes, and accounts for more than 95% of U.S. applications. In high traffic areas, such as the first floor of malls, schools, theme parks or some commercial buildings, architects often select the more impact-resistant PM (Polymer Modified) system, which features a base coat of a uniform thickness that ranges form 1/4-inch (6 mm) to 3/8-inch (9 mm).
Were EIFS developed for a particular climate or region?
EIFS are designed to perform in all regions, during all seasons. EIFS effectively insulate homes coast to coast, in both hot and cold climates. The system's insulation board reduces heat flow both into and out of a home -- to retain heat in cold temperatures, and to keep heat out in hot temperatures. And an EIFS finish can be easily styled to create the special looks that characterize different regions of the US
How does EIFS protect against impact damage?
Impact damage can be prevented move effectively than ever, thanks to durable product features and improved application guidelines. EIFS manufacturers have developed a variety of reinforcing meshes and PM systems that significantly increase the impact resistance of EIFS. To further improve EIFS performance, EIMA has established a requirement that all ground floor applications, and all facades exposed to abnormal stress or deliberate impacts, must have the base coat reinforced with a double layer of glass fiber mesh. Typically, one layer of high impact mesh and one layer of standard mesh are required to meet the standard.
What type of maintenance do EIFS require?
EIFS are virtually maintenance-free. Colors are integral to the finish coat, which virtually eliminates the need for painting. Due to technologically-advanced 100% acrylic binders in the finish coat, the system resists fading, chalking and yellowing, so EIFS colors maintain a just-painted appearance, for a longer period. Most Common pollutants, such as dust, can simply be rinsed off of EIFS finish coats with water. As with most building materials, an occasional washing using simple cleaning agents is recommended to keep EIFS exteriors looking brand new. An annual inspection of sealants around, windows and other openings, routinely conducted by prudent owners regardless of the cladding material, is typically all that is required.