Benefits of Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS)

​Exterior insulation and finish system or EIFS is a non-load-bearing wall cladding system that provides exterior building surfaces with an insulated, water-resistant surface. Its durability and ability to insulate buildings completely make it the perfect choice for residential and commercial projects.
 
Here are some benefits of EIFS.

Durability

​EIFS is designed to resist cracking and fading. It is flexible and can thus resist damage caused by expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. Most systems are formulated with 100 percent acrylic binder, significantly improving their ability to resist chalking and discoloration.
 
As a result, they tend to retain their original color and appearance for years. Since the color is integral to the finish coat, it remains consistent even if the surface is scratched. EIFS is also mold- and mildew-resistant. It is very easy to maintain. If the surface of your system gets soiled, all you need to do is hose it down to get rid of accumulated dirt. 

Energy Efficient

​In summer, conditioned air can escape through your walls. When this happens, your cooling system is forced to work harder and longer than usual. An overworked system consumes more energy and can also develop problems more frequently.
 
EIFS can help improve the energy efficiency of your home by reducing air infiltration by up to as much as 55 percent compared to brick or wood. Combined with standard cavity insulation, it can increase the R-value of your home from R-11 to R-16. A study conducted to determine the amount of energy savings associated with EIFS found that in one building, EIFS helped reduce energy use by 45 percent over a period of one year. 

​Moisture Resistance

​EIFS is more moisture-resistant than many other popular siding materials, such as brick and cementitious fiberboard, also known as fiber cement siding. EIFS should be installed correctly and detailed properly for it to be effective. Improper installation can lead to moisture problems that can damage your EIFS. When installing EIFS, check the flashing to ensure it is intact, or moisture damage can occur. 

Fire Resistance

EIFS has passed several fire resistance tests, including Ignitability (NFPA 268), Fire Resistance (ASTM E 119), and Intermediate Multi-Story Fire Test (NFPA 285 (UBC 26-N)). Researchers studied the ability of EIFS to:

• Prevent flames from spreading within the combustible core or panel components from one story to the next, and
• Stop flames from laterally spreading from the origin of the fire to adjacent spaces. 

Design Flexibility

​EIFS may resemble stucco or stone, but is much more versatile. It comes in a variety of colors and textures. A skilled EIFS contractor near you can customize your EIFS to create columns, arches, keystones, cornerstones, and cornices that can improve the architectural character of your home.
 
Do-All Stucco & Stone is one of the most trusted EIFS contractors near you. Our EIFS technicians bring decades of combined experience to the table. With their trained eyes, they notice problems that amateurs often miss when installing, maintaining, and remediating EIFS. To make your first appointment, call 403-588-5306.