A Scientific Solution to Energy Efficiency

Although EIFS coating systems have been around for decades, the methods continue to improve. Originally developed in Europe,  EIFS, Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, has evolved into a perfect insulating, moisture resistant, and durable cladding for any structure.

An important supplier-partner of ProCoat Systems of Denver is STO Corp, the global leader in continuous insulation systems. These companies provide EIFS component materials including air and moisture barriers, backup wall systems, and StoTherm® ci continuous insulation systems to enhance energy efficiency.

The key to EIFS  construction is the sequencing of several layers of different materials strategically incorporated in a specific order. Each layer has a definite purpose that includes resisting energy loss, inhibiting and carrying away moisture, and adding strength and durability to the wall. The exterior layer is a specially designed acrylic stucco-like finish.

EIFS is a non-load bearing wall structure designed to reduce energy loss for commercial and residential structures.

Layers of EIFS

From the inside out, a finished EIFS layering system consists of a reinforcing mesh and an inner gypsum board layer attached with an adhesive to a plywood substrate of the building wall. Adhesives should be used instead of metal fasteners at each step since metal is an efficient energy conductor.

• A reinforcing mesh is applied to the substrate.
• Drainage plane to eliminate moisture that may penetrate to this level is next.The gap is created by applying house wrap, felt, or trowel application.
• An insulation board is placed securely over the reinforcing mesh. The thickness of the insulation board can vary from ¾” to 4-inches depending upon the degree of energy retention desired.
• A prescribed base coat is applied over the insulation board to act as a moisture barrier. This material provides the outer moisture barrier to the system.
• Press mesh material into the base coat so that it is invisible within the base coat material. Once the base coat and mesh have dried, a primer coat may be added to increase protection.
• A durable, acrylic-based, crack resistant exterior coating is applied. While the finished exterior layer has the appearance of stucco, it is designed to last longer, be moisture resistant while providing a beautiful and classic outer appearance.

Contact ProCoat Systems for EIFS Details

For questions regarding the application of EIFS systems, contact the building cladding experts at ProCoat in Denver. You can find more information at their website http://www.procoatsystems.com.

Call today at 303-322-9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/scientific-solution-energy-efficiency/

Understanding the Elements of EIFS Construction

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.

Call ProCoat Systems today at (303)-322-9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/understanding-elements-eifs-construction/

Face-Sealed EIFS and Sealant Joints

EIFS, Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, are appropriate for nearly any location if the proper drainage measures are designed and executed. In low-drying or high-humidity locations, ones with substantial annual rainfall, moisture must be prevented from entering at joint locations. And water should also be allowed to drain via an designed cavity that prevents penetration into the interior gypsum and other insulating materials.

By limiting temperature transfer from the outside, EIFS construction layers are engineered to act as a blanket to lower energy costs substantially. However, when that blanket becomes wet and will not dry in a short ime, problems begin to arise. The issues can be in the form of mold development and deterioration of the material components.

Drainage and Seals

Two separate measures are employed to combat moisture and reduce the potential for water and high humidity damage to EIFS layers. These measures should be properly executed during the initial construction or remodel.

Drainage Plane- Creating a drainage cavity or gap between the outer EIFS surface and the interior glass-matted gypsum allows moisture that penetrates through the stucco-like surface to drain downward and out through the base of the wall. This drainable EIFS assembly process eliminates most of the moisture retention problems that plagued earlier versions of EIFS.

Sealant Joints- The other major culprit to accumulating moisture in EIFS construction are the joints that surround windows, balconies, and doors. Also, rain may flow through the roof joints into the EIFS lamina if these are not properly sealed. In areas where drying periods are longer or rain is less frequent, the materials my dry out within a reasonable time. But in rainy areas, these potential problem spots can allow moisture to enter without proper sealing.

To ensure a perfect sealing process in every potential trouble spot, Building Science recommends that the sealant must:

●       Adhere well to the lamina

●       Be ultraviolet light resistant

●       Not be stronger than the base coat bond strength

●       Be affordable

If joint sealants are applied perfectly, the building owner should not experience problems. Regular inspection to determine whether the sealants are holding should identify problems that may be developing.

Sealants can be reapplied when necessary to prevent further damage.

Contact ProCoat Systems

EIFS installation must be performed perfectly to be fully effective. In high precipitation and excessive humidity, moisture can develop anywhere.

If you have questions regarding the practicality and economy of EIFS in future construction and remodeling, be sure to seek expert advice. The cladding professionals at ProCoat Systems in Denver are available to discuss the technical aspects of EIFS construction for your building.

Call 303-322-9009 for more information.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/face-sealed-eifs-sealant-joints/