Masonry Magazine October 1997 Page. 31
EIFS
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems
by Charles W. Graham, Ph.D., AIA
Exterior Insulation Finish Systems, also referred to as EIFS or synthetic stuccoes, are frequently used as building cladding systems on both residential and commercial buildings in the United States. The Exterior Insulation Manufacturers Association (EIMA) estimates that 285 million square feet of EIFS (all construction types) were sold in the United States in 1996, a 10% increase over the year before. The EIMA estimates that EIFS account for about 17% of the U.S. commercial exterior wall market, and about 3.5% of the residential wall market (more than 260,000 homes). The author's observations are, and most building industry watchers agree, that EIFS are being used primarily on larger custom homes; and on light commercial construction such as on shopping centers, offices, hotels, motels, and other low-rise commercial buildings. Usage in the residential sector is increasing, but usage and growth are probably greatest in the commercial sector.
Insulating efficiency is one of the advertised benefits of EIFS. Synthetic stuccoes incorporate a system of polystyrene or polyisocyanurate foam insulation board, usually 1 1/2" -2" in thickness, that is attached to the exterior wall sheathing of the building. Because of their potential energy efficiency, EIFS-clad buildings have been compared to making inside-out-refrigerators because they literally make a complete box that is well insulated. The entire building system is insulated rather than only the gaps between and around structural members. Manufacturers also advertise the following features of EIFS:
SUBSTRATE
ADHESIVE
INSULATION BOARD
REINFORCING FABRIC
Architectural flexibility
Almost any surface form or relief is possible. The outer coating of EIFS can be tinted to a variety of colors, or textured for surface effect.
Low maintenance
Since the outer coating is often tinted, the color goes beyond the surface in a homogeneous layer that does not require painting.
Retrofit applications
EIFS are useful in improving the appearance and energy efficiency of older homes. They can be applied to wood framed homes as easily as to steel framed or masonry homes, and they are often desirable on remodel.
BASE COAT
FINISH COAT