EIFS Dryvit
What Is EIFS?
It's an acronym for Exterior Insulation and Finish System. It is essentially an exterior siding system. It should not be confused with stucco, which, though it looks similar, is quite different. Many people incorrectly refer to the product as "Dryvit". Dryvit is just one of several brands currently available on the market. Others include STO, Parex, and Synergy etc.
How Is EIFS Installed?
Residential applications typically include: Insulation board (Styrofoam) is secured to the exterior wall surface of the home. A water resistant base coat is then applied over the insulation and is reinforced with fiberglass mesh for strength. The last step is to apply an acrylic polymer finish coat. The finish coat comes in many colors.
Why Is EIFS So Popular?
EIFS has gained popularity due to its superior energy efficiency and unique design flexibility. By wrapping the exterior in an energy efficient coating, there is reportedly a 55% reduction in air infiltration, compared to standard building products. Additionally, the overall R-value is increased. As a result, heating bills for EIFS homes can be expected to be less than that for similar homes with other exteriors. There is also an appreciable sound deadening which occurs. Lastly, the product is easily sculpted to achieve a variety of different architectural looks. It is this design flexibility that has most attributed to the popularity of EIFS.
Who Shoud Install EIFS?
EIFS is designed and sold as a complete system. Only a certified EIFS installer should install it. As a matter of fact, most problems with EIFS are not due to the product, but are due to mixing manufacturer's products and non-compliance with installation methodology.
Is EIFS Maintenance Free?
It is low maintenance, but not maintenance free. Since the color is impregnated in the finish coat, EIFS does not have to be stained or painted like conventional siding, hence, the misnomer that the product is maintenance free. It is recommended that EIFS homes be regularly inspected to detect possible water penetration. Special attention should be paid to cracked caulk around doors, windows and trim.
How Is EIFS Different From Other Siding?
An EIFS surface generally does not leak unless it cracks or is physically damaged. Most exterior siding (such as brick and vinyl) is expected to leak and is designed to allow water, which gets behind it to "get back out". Some newer EIFS applications (since 1999) are also designed to allow water drainage. They contain a drainage channel/mesh drainage system, which older EIFS applications did not. Without drainage, water can be trapped behind the siding, which makes it important for homeowners, to have the siding inspected and maintained. Otherwise trapped moisture can cause unseen damage/rotting. In most cases where damage has occurred, it has been attributed to improper installation as opposed to a failure of EIFS. This is why it is important to have EIFS installed by a certified installer and to have regular inspections by a certified EIFS inspector.
Does Insurance Cover These Problems?
That will depend on the insurance policy. Many policies do not cover moisture damage, which develops slowly. Homeowners should check with their insurance company. Some of the manufacturers of EIFS have formed a trade group called EIMA (EIFS Industry members Association). Some of the manufacturers provide written warranties and/or insurance policies. EIMA's number is 1-800-294-3462.