Are You Confused by the Difference Between Stucco and EIFS?

Many people view two entirely different cladding systems, stucco and EIFS, as the same.  It is true that on the surface, these appear to be similar. But what is going on beneath the outer layer is the difference.

Stucco is a durable and attractive exterior coating for buildings and homes. The material may be applied over wood, steel, or masonry subsurfaces to provide an distinct and beautiful appearance. Stucco offers a truly classic look and requires very little maintenance.

EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems) is a far more involved technology than a pure cladding. It is a technologically advanced and improved system to minimize energy costs while providing attractiveness with durability. EIFS consists of integrated composite layers that start with the interior subsurface and build out to a textured finished coating that may look like a stucco application.

More About Stucco

Stucco has withstood the test of time for centuries. Classic examples of the incomparable beauty and charming style of stucco remain throughout Europe and North America today.  The popular Italian Style (1890-1935) of architecture promoted stucco as the essential cladding for buildings constructed in this mode.

The development of Portland cement as the binder in stucco in the mid-1800s ignited the spread of stucco coverings throughout Europe, North America, and South America during the twentieth century. In the United States, it is rare to drive through an upscale neighborhood without seeing several homes with stucco cladding.

How is EIFS Constructed?

Starting with the interior substrate, the first component is the foam insulation board that is attached to the inner subsurface with an adhesive. Next, an acrylic or polymer-based material is applied over the insulation board as a base coat. A heavy-duty reinforcement mesh is then applied to the adhesive-covered insulation. The mesh is intended to create a uniform support within the walls, spreading any outside forces evenly throughout the structure.

A moisture drainage gap is created by inserting building paper between layers that will crinkle and disappear over time. This cavity allows any penetrating moisture to drain and escape though flashing systems or weep screed below.

The final step is the application of a textured finish coat of crack-resistant acrylic copolymer material. While the coating looks much like stucco, it is less brittle and can withstand building shifts and settling better than other claddings.

Contact ProCoat Systems in Denver

For information regarding, stucco, EIFS, or any other cladding system, contact the experts at ProCoat Systems. With much experience handling all high-quality interior and exterior surface materials, the representatives will be glad to answer any questions.

Phone ProCoat at 303.322.9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/confused-difference-stucco-eifs/

Why the Mesh in an EIFS System?

EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems) have been around for decades. This building method is intended to create a cladding system that provides the highest level of energy conservation while offering an attractive, low maintenance option for home and business owners.

In recent years, significant improvements have enhanced the performance of EIFS and eliminated all issues pertaining to moisture retention and durability. Advances have come from new techniques and the use of new technologies and materials.

Why is Mesh Used for EIFS?

As with any system, the effectiveness of the building cladding is defined by the combination of strength and compatibility of each component. Every element of EIFS has a specific function and, in tandem, the entire system should provide the desired effect by restricting energy use and keeping moisture and harsh weather outside.

EIFS consists of several layers of specialized materials, each with a specific role in preserving energy and reducing the effects of moisture and other potentially harmful elements. One of the key players in the EIFS combination is the reinforcing mesh that helps the entire group to hold in place to deliver the results.

Reinforcing mesh spans the entire surface of an EIFS installation. In each case, the mesh acts to distribute forces evenly throughout the system to keep problems from accumulating in any single location. The mesh strengthens the entire system Additional, higher-rated mesh will further enhance the structure’s durability and longevity.

Durability of EIFS

Within the several layers and materials required for an efficient EIFS cladding is a durable mesh material. The Exterior Design Institute recommends a high-impact, reinforcing mesh that is double-strand, interwoven glass fiber. The mesh should have an alkaline resistant coating to be compatible with most base coats. The material should be at least 15 oz./square yard, though 20 oz./square yard provides an even more durable surface.

According to EIFS Industry Members Association (EIMA), EIFS has been tested and certified by NFPA (National Fire Prevention Association) for fire and by the Miami/Dade County (FL) hurricane testing.

Ask ProCoat Systems of Denver about EIFS Mesh

Mesh material is the heart of all high-quality EIFS construction. For any questions regarding cladding systems, contact the ProCoat experts at 303.322.9009.

ProCoat Systems of Denver is a leading distributor of the world’s best quality interior and exterior cladding materials. ProCoat’s range of products and construction knowledge is among the best in the industry.

Check out their website at http://www.procoatsystems.com/ today.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/mesh-eifs-system/

Traditional Stucco Claddings and Water Management

Stucco buildings have been around for centuries. Many scientists believe that even the pyramids of Egypt were coated in a white stucco substance made from volcanic ash in the beginning. Though some material has endured over 1000 years, attractive and durable stucco gained substantial prominence in Europe and North America with the development of Portland cement as a binding ingredient in 1843. After that time, stucco coatings gained significant popularity and became a cladding of choice during the first part of the twentieth century.

In addition to stucco’s timeless, attractive appearance, the cladding offers excellent durability with very limited upkeep. Builders of correctly applied stucco surfaces employ both drainage and storage strategies to eliminate the accumulation of moisture. Minimizing moisture absorption while providing adequate storage beneath to drain or dry is the key to a long-lasting cladding.

How Does Stucco Keep the Building from Experiencing Moisture Problems?

In some climates, where moisture levels are minimal and low humidity is the norm, builders do not worry much about moisture accumulation. However, in many parts of the country, precipitation levels can be high, particularly during certain seasons, and special precautions are necessary to prevent moisture damage within any construction.

For masonry walls, a Portland cement-based stucco incorporates vapor permeable paints to resist penetration of rainwater and allow the moisture to dry externally. When water does penetrate the surface, the moisture that enters will reach the interior masonry surfaces and be stored there until it eventually dries.

With wood-framed or steel stud walls sheathed in gypsum or plywood boards, the stucco exterior surface can be separated from the sheathing with a gap or cavity. To accomplish this, building paper and metal lath is placed over the gypsum or plywood subsurface before the stucco is applied. In a short time, the building papers absorb moisture, crinkle, and shrink, thereby creating a perfect drainage gap between the stucco exterior and the interior surface. As a result, moisture that does penetrate the stucco surface reaches the space and eventually drains out of the wall through weep screeds or flashing system. Adequately installed weep screeds also prevent moisture from wicking up into the outside walls while providing continuous drainage. 

Contact ProCoat Systems in Denver

ProCoat Systems specialists are experts in the installation, design, and management of all types of claddings. To understand more about the elimination of moisture problems in stucco and other claddings, contact ProCoat for more information at 303-322-9009.

Visit ProCoat System’s website to view the many attractive, functional, and durable options for any home or building. 

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/traditional-stucco-claddings-water-management/

The Durability of Exterior EIFS Systems

While curb appeal and durability are desirable attributes of any structure, homeowners and commercial building managers also look for comfort, energy efficiency, and low-cost maintenance. Various exterior claddings suit particular aesthetic tastes, yet one finish stands out as the most durable and energy efficient of all.

Exterior Insulation and Finish System, known as EIFS, is a cladding system designed to provide exceptional protection from the weather extremes or moisture intrusion while keeping energy costs down. Current installations of EIFS have withstood massive hurricanes and high winds while the exteriors of nearby non-EIFS buildings suffered substantial exterior damage from wind and flying debris.

What Makes EIFS More Durable?

In areas where high winds and storms are more likely, EIFS claddings can be the right answer. Think of EIFS cladding as a warm coat that maintains comfort inside while providing an effective barrier to outside elements. EIFS layers add strength to the structure to resist the extreme forces of nature. In hurricane areas, EIFS have even been recognized by FEMA for their resistance to wind-driven debris and high wind forces.

Impact-resistant EIFS owes its durability to the layering of sturdy high-impact mesh over a foam insulation board and coated with a durable layer of polymers and cement material, plus a moisture elimination gap, and finished with a textured outer surface of a stucco-type material.  ProCoat Systems’ specialists in Denver will be pleased to provide more information about the structural advantages of EIFS.

Most EIFS outer coatings consist of a 100% acrylic binder that protects the surface from fading, chalking, or yellowing and require less upkeep than other external materials. Also, EIFS resist dirt, mildew, and mold development. The coating retains its “like new” appearance for a long time and needs merely an occasional hose down to remove accumulated dust and grime.

Unlike standard stucco, concrete, or brick materials, an EIFS surface does not crack easily. The coating formulation contains components that resists breaking as wide temperature variances cause walls to expand and buildings to shift.

Contact ProCoat Systems of Denver

ProCoat Systems’ professional staff are the building cladding specialists. For information regarding the money saving advantages and possibilities of EIFS for your building, phone ProCoat at 303-322-9009.

Visit ProCoat Systems website to see their extensive line of interior and exterior materials that will enhance the beauty and functionality of your home or business with durable, practical, and beautiful options.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/durability-exterior-eifs-systems/