EIFS – Exterior Insulation Finish System
EIFS, exterior insulation and finishing system, is a class of building cladding systems. It is a non-load bearing composite that provides insulation, water-resistance and a finished surface that can simulate just about anything. It was originally developed in Europe after World War II where it is know as External Wall Insulation System (EWIS) and External Thermal Insulation Cladding System (ETICS).
As in Europe, EIFS was first used in the 1960s in North America on masonry buildings, but since the 1990s the majority of EIFS installations have been on wood framed structures. EIFS has to be properly installed and as the popularity of the material exploded water infiltration problems grew resulting in a huge number of legal cases. Since then EIFS has continued to be used because, despite the need for quality control, it is a very good way to clad buildings.
The model below shows an EIFS (External Insulation Finish System) assembly with a mechanical fastener securing insulation onto sheathing sealed with WRB (weather resistant membrane) which is covered with a mesh that holds a base coat onto which is applied the finish coat.
Scroll to zoom in on the 3D model and drag to orbit about it. Drag cursor + SHIFT to pan
BuildingDefects.com EIFS Page
This page includes a long and informative article on EIFS defects, inspection and testing and links to pages with similarly extensive and detailed text on disputes, arbitration, litigation, class actions, dealing with contractors and more.
Design + Durability Magazine Article on EIFS Building Cladding
“Not Your Father’s Stucco – EIFS and Topcoat Systems” by Alan Zielnik of Atlas Material Testing Technology – Durability + Design Magazine – February 2016
Design + Durability Magazine Article on EIFS Building Cladding
“A Versatile Cladding For Buildings” by David Johnson and Scott Robinson of the EIFS Industry Members Association (EIMA) – Durability + Design Magazine – January 2015
Dryvit Systems, Inc.
Dryvit is to EIFS as Kleenex is to facial tissue. They’ve been manufacturing EIFS materials and systems since the 1960s and continue to lead the industry, which wouldn’t be the case if they didn’t provide complete and accurate data and instructions. This site includes pages on all their products including repair instructions and recommended materials to use while repairing, restoring and maintaining EIFS components.
Dow Corning EIFS Restoration Guide
“The recommendations in this guide are not intended to replace those of a qualified industry consultant or engineer who can investigate and evaluate the existing condition of a particular EIFS building.”
EIFS Inspection Protocol
EIFS Repair, Inc., Sterling Heights, Michigan
Lots of good tips on just about every aspect of EIFS installation and repair.
Master Wall, Inc.
Manufacturer of stucco, coatings and Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) for residential and commercial projects since 1987.
Sto Corporation
Manufacturer of air and moisture barriers, EIFS components and systems, stucco systems, cement board stucco systems, back-up wall systems, specialty wall systems, finishes and coatings
