Exterior
Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) is becoming an increasingly popular method
of construction to create a beautiful, durable, and highly energy efficient
cladding system for any building. EIFS have been around for years although improved techniques and
design features have developed to make these even more efficient, long-lasting,
and moisture resistant.
EIFS
consists of several layers of complementary materials designed to restrict the
loss of energy, capture and eliminate moisture, reduce maintenance, and provide
a durable and beautiful exterior. Properly installed, EIFS scores high grades
in each area and can save thousands of dollars in energy costs over the life of
the building.
Think of
EIFS as a non-load bearing, exterior wall system that preserves heat and
resists rain much like a warm overcoat for your home or office building. And,
the system performs equally well in preventing energy loss and heat intrusion
during those super-hot days of summer.
How Does It Work?
Each EIFS Element (from the Inside
Out)
● Water-resistant barrier covers the
substrate of the wall. This is often a glass-faced gypsum sheathing.
● Moisture elimination gap that is
usually created by vertical ribbons of adhesive material between the
water-resistant barrier and the insulation board. Joints must be carefully
sealed using a high-quality mesh tape.
The moisture is eliminated by channeling the water to the base of the wall and
eliminated outside.
● Insulation board of expanded
polystyrene (EPS)
● EPS mesh is embedded with a water
resistent base coat.
●
Exterior
coat of crack-resistant and color fast material made with acrylic co-polymer
technology is applied in a similar fashion as standard stucco.
Each layer
plays a role in either resisting moisture invasion or insulating against energy
loss. Scientifically designed, the entire EIFS structure is capable of
minimizing energy usage while retaining the building’s long-lasting, moisture
free attractiveness.
Who Is Using EIFS?
Many home,
institutional, and commercial property owners have discovered the budget-saving
advantages and durability of EIFS cladding for new construction as well as
remodeling. Properly installed, the
design flexibility, beauty, and the competitive pricing matched with
operational savings have made EIFS a preferred option for hotels, schools,
office buildings and retail stores.
Contact ProCoat Systems in Denver
For more
information regarding the technology and installation of EIFS claddings,
contact ProCoat
Systems. Their
partner, STO Corp, is a leading designer and supplier for EIFS systems
worldwide.
The ProCoat professionals will be pleased to discuss the
benefits of highly efficient and moisture resistive EIFS claddings.
This post was
originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/understanding-elements-eifs-construction/
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