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 are available to discuss the technical aspects of EIFS construction for your building.

This article originally published at https://www.procoatsystems.com/eifs/face-sealed-eifs-sealant-joints

10 Steps for the Perfect EIFS Application

EIFS, Exterior Insulation and Finish System, is a cladding technique designed to protect and insulate buildings while reducing energy costs. Though a very specific layering process, starting inside the building and extending to the outer wall, the EIFS process insulates while preventing moisture build-up within the system.

A ProCoat partner, Sto Corporation, is the industry leader in the development of EIFS treatment. Introducing StoTherm® in 1963, Sto has continued to perfect their EIFS process and has developed a next generation system named StoTherm EIFS NExT that adds a unified layer to the traditional system.

How Are EIFS Applied?

There are several steps to creating a proper EIFS application. Before beginning, make sure all components and scaffolding are on hand and all surfaces are prepared.  

Substrates

StoTherm EIFS can be installed over the glass-mat gypsum sheathing, wood-based sheathing, plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), masonry, plaster, concrete or stucco. The key element of EIFS is to ensure there is no moisture accumulation not contaminants within the systems. A waterproof air barrier should be applied.   Damaged sheathing should be replaced.

 1.Attachments Specially designed adhesives are used to fasten all elements in the EIFS structure. Metal fasteners should not be used since the conductivity of the metal contradicts the process of reducing energy.

 2. Backwrapping with Reinforcing Mesh A reinforcing mesh is attached to the substrate with the adhesive.The mesh will, in fact, be holding the insulation board that will comes next by folding over or “backwrapping” around the edges of the board.

3. Preparing the Insulation or EPS Board While the minimum effective thickness of the insulation board is ¾-inch, most codes will allow up to 4 inches. When applying the boards, try to eliminate any gaps or thermal breaks between each piece. The insulation boards should be cut with a knife using a T-square to guide the cut.

4. Adhesive Application Apply the adhesive to the EPS with a notched trowel. The “ribbons” or lines of adhesive should run parallel to the long dimension of the board.

 5. Installing the Insulation Boards Place the boards so there is no space between them to create breaks. After installation, check for any breaks or spaces. If there are any, even the width of a credit card, they must be filled with an insulating material.

 6. Rasping Rasp the entire insulation board surface, not just the joints, with sandpaper to ensure they are level and smooth.

 7. Base Coat and Mesh Application Apply a prescribed base coat to prevent sunlight from affecting the insulation board surface. Several Sto-approved base coat products are acceptable. The mesh is then embedded until it is no longer visible through the base coat. If the mesh does show through, more base coat is necessary to cover it completely. Allow the base coat to dry. Primer may be used here for complete protection.

 8. Finish Coating Apply the finish coat directly over the base coat in continuous application.

 9. Floating or Spraying Textures Texture can be applied to the outer surface with various products and application methods. Sto offers stucco, limestone, various other textures to cover the EIFS.

 10. Sealant The final protective step is the application of a sealant to any joints where the EPS boards may meet another surface like a doorframe or meter box. The sealant acts as a shock absorber between the two surfaces, stretching as the surfaces move.


For more information regarding EIFS, contact the experts at ProCoat Systems.


 This article was originally posted at : https://www.procoatsystems.com/eifs/10-steps-perfect-eifs-application

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/

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/

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/

The Value of EIFS Exterior Insulation

EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems) has been around for decades. During that time, the methods and materials have evolved into a state-of-the-art cladding system that is growing in popularity worldwide. The system consists of scientifically designed layers that coordinate to minimize energy loss while resisting moisture absorption. EIFS claddings create an energy-efficient and durable structure that reduces long-term operating costs while providing an attractive exterior appearance.

Since up to 55% of energy loss passes through building walls, EIFS systems create a superior R-value, the measurement of the resistance of heat loss, in buildings and homes. The combination of the insulation board used in EIFS, plus the high-tech wall insulating materials and built-in moisture evacuation cavity, will create a wall rated up to R16, a significant improvement over standard insulation.

New Construction Benefits

The energy saving benefit of a newly constructed building does not simply stop with restricting the loss of heat. Additionally, owners can install smaller capacity furnaces and air conditioners to handle the reduced demand. As a result, less electricity or gas will be used to keep the building comfortable.

Exterior Durability and Reduced Maintenance

EIFS exterior insulation consists of a water-resistant base coat to serve as a weather barrier, followed by a colorfast and crack-resistant polymer surface material. Unlike some other exteriors, the material is resistant to fading, yellowing, and chalking. As a result, today’s EIFS rarely needs repainting.

Also, the outer surface resists dirt, mildew, and mold. If these surfaces should become dirty, they can be cleaned easily with a water hose.

Moisture Control

During the early evolution of EIFS exterior insulation, moisture absorption due to high humidity and excessive rainfall was a problem. Since then, developers have altered the layering structure to include more water resistant materials. Also, an open cavity in the midst of the insulating layers allows for complete moisture evaporation and drainage. Improved exterior finishes plus better sealing processes at seams and gaps have eliminated the water problem.

With current techniques, EIFS has better moisture management than other types of claddings including stucco, wood, brick, or stone.

Fire Resistance

EIFS meets or exceeds all fire code requirements. EIFS exterior insulation is  certified for fire resistance, ignitability, intermediate multi-story testing, and flame spreading resistance.

Contact ProCoat Systems in Denver

For more information regarding the superior qualities of EIFS exterior insulation and construction processes, contact the experts at ProCoat Systems. Call today at 303.322.9009 and learn about the energy-saving capability of EIFS exterior insulation systems.

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

Protecting Stucco and EIFS from Rain Damage

Rain and moisture accumulation can create serious problems for any building cladding. With improperly applied stucco or EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems), water that finds its way under the exterior surfaces and remains can cause mold development, deterioration, or excessive cracking if the material remains damp for an extended period.

Some early EIFS applications suffered from moisture buildup beneath the surface in rainy or very humid climates and often began to show the symptoms over time. Stucco surfaces, while made from different material than EIFS, will also absorb moisture and certain measures must be adopted to prevent long-term damage. 

Strategies to Mitigate Water Damage

In truth, all building claddings leak or absorb water. Builders and architects have adopted appropriate strategies to resist excessive water retention in all kinds of claddings including EIFS, stucco, stone, granite, wood, vinyl, brick, and precast concrete. Existing water management construction methods tend to fall into the certain categories or combinations that include creating perfect barriers with interior and exterior water-resistant materials, building internal reservoir systems, or devising drainage systems within the wall cavities.

EIFS Moisture Management

Once the moisture problem of early EIFS construction in high-humidity areas was identified, architects added additional protection from possible accumulated moisture. Inserted within the energy-saving insulating layers is an additional section with a drainage cavity bordered by a water-resistant material to prevent extended moisture retention. The cavity design allows the moisture to flow out at the bottom, keeping the rest of the system relatively dry.

Most importantly, edges, seams, and joints must be sealed as completely as possible to resist any further penetration from the rain.

Stucco Moisture Management

Properly applied stucco, a combination of Portland cement, sand, lime, and water also can have the water-resistant capability in a modified reservoir and drainage system.  The stucco is applied over two layers of building paper and metal lath that has been placed over a layer of water-resistant gypsum board. The paper creates a drainage plane by first absorbing moisture from the stucco, then drying and shrinking, thereby creating a cavity between the stucco and the gypsum board. The open space allows for evaporation and drainage of moisture that had penetrated the stucco.  

Contact ProCoat Systems in Denver

For more information about cladding protection from rain or moisture problems, contact the experts at ProCoat Systems. Phone 303-322-9009.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/protecting-stucco-eifs-rain-damage/

Is Your EIFS or Stucco Cracking?

While EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems) exterior cladding and stucco may have a very similar appearance, the composition of these is different. The EIFS cladding, with several insulating and moisture-draining layers beneath, consists of polymeric-bonded aggregate and reinforced cement. Stucco, on the other hand, is a centuries-old material made from Portland cement and lime bonded with sand and water.

While the materials in EIFs or stucco are different, eventually aging, drying, and building movement can cause cracks in either material. The essential objective is to keep the amount of cracking over time in either material to a minimum.

Mitigating Cracking in EIFS Cladding

Surface cracks will eventually develop in the EIFS lamina or coating. The cause may be from hygric (moisture) or thermal stresses or a combination of both. The EIFS layering is supported by a mesh reinforcement that essentially redistributes the stress throughout the coating and allows minute micro-fractures to form rather than large visible cracks. Stucco does not have this built-in mitigation.

Over time, continued exposure to moisture will weaken the mesh material. This influence eventually reduces the elasticity of the mesh and can cause the mesh itself to crack. Usually the cracking first occurs near window openings where moisture may most likely accumulate.

Effects of Building Movement

Buildings move over time. Taller buildings are more likely to shift, though shorter ones do also. In some case, control joints are part of the design to minimize the stress from movement or shifting. When these are built into the structure, the stress from the movement will reduce cracking in either EIFS or stucco.

When EIFS are incorporated in a wood frame building, the stresses of movement from humidity and drying are absorbed by the wood members in a cross-grain fashion. According to Building Science.com, builders concentrate cross-grain wood elements at rim joists, around heavy framing, and top and bottom plates to respond to humidity changes.

EIFS or Stucco

EIFS is an effective energy managing and money-saving option for many types of structures. However, moisture and humidity management are essential to minimize cracking from humidity and accumulated moisture. The latest EIFS systems address these challenges by integrating moisture eliminating cavities and materials.

For more information about the many advantages of EIFS construction, contact ProCoat Systems in Denver at 303.322,9009.

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

Effects of Climate on EIFS Exterior Finishes

Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, popularly known as “EIFS”, is an exterior building cladding system designed decades ago to provide energy efficiency with integrated layers of various composite materials. Designed to act as a winter coat for any structure, the EIFS system is more than a simple exterior layer intended to add aesthetic value and protection.

From the inside outward, EIFS exterior finishes typically consists of a gypsum board interior surface covering a cavity insulation material, a sheathing material, a drainage plane of felt or housewrap, a drainage cavity with spacers to release trapped moisture, and finally a synthetic or traditional stucco applied over rigid insulation. These layers serve to eliminate energy transfer between the inside and outside while draining any moisture that is prone to accumulate when heat meets cold. 

Modern EIFS, with the addition of the moisture-eliminating cavity and materials, are called Drained EIFS.

How Do Climate Changes Affect Drained EIFS?

According to a Building Science blog from July 2007, many of the EIFS claddings installed in the 1980’s in humid or semi-humid areas eventually developed moisture accumulation problems. The result would be excess mold, decay, fungi, and deterioration. The problem was a result of moisture trapped between the layers and very limited drying potential in those areas.

 More recent variations of EIFS exterior finishes have eliminated the problem by designing drained EIFS that incorporate moisture eliminating cavities and barriers. As a result, accumulated moisture is no longer a problem with properly installed, energy-efficient EIFS.

The key to eliminating all moisture problems is to design and construct the exterior system in which the drying capability is greater than the wetting potential, i.e. rain. To minimize the impact of precipitation on any cladding surface, including EIFS, architects add features to redirect or channel water away from the exterior surface. In any event, in climates where rainfall is normal or above, drained EIFS systems are far superior to the original surface EIFS that were intended strictly to reduce energy costs.

Water Control Measures

In areas like the Southeast or Pacific Northwest where rain can be abundant, architects employ three approaches to prevent damage due from water accumulation. These are:

●       Draining configurations like drained EIFS with built-in moisture eliminating cavities.

●       Water-stored, as in reservoirs in brick, stone, masonry or concrete structures in which absorbed moisture dries through capillary action.

●       Perfect Barrier approach in which the surface cladding is “face sealed” or is built with an interior barrier known as a “concealed barrier.”

Contact ProCoat Systems of Denver

For more information about drained EIFS, energy saving, and other cladding options, phone the experts at ProCoat at 303.322.9009.

Or, visit their website at http://www.procoatsystems.com/ to learn more.

This post was originally published at http://www.procoatsystems.com/effects-climate-eifs-exterior-finishes/

What is Insulation Stucco?

What is Insulation Stucco?

Stucco itself is not a significantly effective insulating material. As a mixture of cement, lime, and silica applied in thick layers over a substrate, the material does create a concrete cladding over the exterior. This outer shell tends to require less energy to heat and cool the building compared to some other single layer materials.

Typical stucco does retard external noise transmission, an important attribute for those living near noisy freeways and other busy areas. 

But usually, when the term “insulation stucco” is used, the reference is to a more sophisticated building-cladding strategy known as EIFS, or Exterior Insulation and Finish System. Simply put, EIFS is a scientifically designed combination of materials layered to prevent moisture accumulation and impede the loss of energy. EIFS is a superior wall cladding designed to reduce energy loss, enhance weather resistance, and can provide a beautiful stucco exterior.

What Makes Up Stucco Systems Cladding?

Stucco Systems by STO Corp, a strategic partner of ProCoat Systems of Denver is a combination of several compatible barrier layers beneath an exterior coat of stucco.

From the inside out, the STO Stucco System’s high-performance layers are designed to work together to form a protective barrier that eliminates moisture accumulation and reduces the total energy required to heat and cool the building.

Directly applied to the interior substrate, the first layer is an air and moisture barrier that limits moisture from entering the system. Second is a patented continuous insulation system with high R-value to prevent thermal bridging. The next section is a drainage mat and cavity that are designed to block moisture from entering and keeping it from accumulating within the wall system. The gap promotes rapid drainage away from the wall system.

The outer layer is the Powerwall stucco material that supplies additional thermal protection. A broad spectrum of premium finishes, coatings, and textures are designed to protect the stucco layer to keep it beautiful and functional for decades.

The STO Stucco System is easier to apply than many other exterior claddings. The layers are pre-manufactured and can be installed from either the exterior or the interior. The result is like coating your building in a warm blanket.

Contact ProCoat Systems

For more information about creating an energy efficient stucco cladding, phone the experts at ProCoat Systems of Denver. They will be happy to discuss the economics and practical aspects of surrounding your building in these energy saving materials.

Phone ProCoat Systems at 303.322.9009.

EIFS vs. Metal Cladding: What You Need to Know

EIFS vs. Metal Cladding: What You Need to Know

When choosing between a metal or EIFS cladding for any building, there are several factors to consider. Overall appearance, resistance to damage from weather, energy efficiency, and ease of installation should be primary considerations.

Incorporate these decision points choosing between metal or EIFS, an Exterior Insulation and Finish System.

What Is EIFS Construction?

EIFS is recognized as the most energy-efficient construction cladding for reducing long-term operating expenses. An EIFS building is sealed with specially designed layers of barrier materials to provide insulation and moisture resistance. The leading EIFS method is a scientifically designed system developed by STO Corp that engulfs the building much like an enormous thermal blanket.

And, any one of variety of attractive exterior claddings may be used to cover the insulating EIFS material.

Appearance

Metal cladding alone can be an attractive alternative to other external options. However, EIFS construction allows for a choice of exterior cladding options that have the appearance of stucco, brick, stone, or limestone to match surrounding buildings or the owner's preferences. Available in nearly unlimited colors with many decorative architectural features, EIFS cladding can result in the building of your dreams in every respect.

Resistance to Damage

Metal siding eventually succumbs to damage. Hail and physical impact from equipment and flying objects eventually take their toll on a metal-sided building and the accumulated effects can become obvious in very few years. EIFS claddings are far more durable and less likely to show signs of external damage.

Insulating Capability

In the category of insulation capability and energy savings, EIFS cladding stands as the reigning champion. With several layers of material integrated to diminish any loss of energy, the building will remain warm in the winter and cool in the summer at a much lower operating costs than with other construction types.

Metal cladding, on the other hand, is known to conduct, rather than restrict, heat and energy.

Ease of Installation

EIFS systems, incorporating all of the insulation plus moisture and air resistant layers, are manufactured by STO as an all-inclusive system. Metal sidings require special sizing and cutting using specially designed blades to achieve the right-sized pieces. Usually additional insulation must be added before the metal cladding is applied.

Contact ProCoat of Denver

ProCoat is a supplier for the innovative products from STO Corp, the worldwide leader in EIFS exterior cladding. For more information about EIFS and other innovative cladding concepts, contact the experts at ProCoat at 308.322.9009.

EIFS Coating Textures: What Are My Choices?

Installing EIFS to your home or business is not just about creating a well-insulated, highly energy efficient cladding to the exterior. Once installed, the protective EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) can be coated with a broad range of beautiful and practical finishes from Sto Corp, the recognized leader in integrated exterior wall systems. Whether matching your personal taste, “standing out”, or coordinating with the surrounding environment is the objective, Sto coatings enhance the effectiveness of the EIFS while creating an almost unlimited number of options to project individual creativity.

Exterior coatings by Sto can replicate virtually any finish. Whether the preference is stucco, granite, brick, limestone or another covering style, ProCoat will provide Sto’s complete selection of possibilities.

Standard Finishes

ProCoat finishes from Sto are not only about color. The texture is the characteristic that imparts the distinctive appearance to any structure. Available in an unlimited number of colors and shades, Sto’s standard marble aggregate coating can be applied in a variety of textures. The material, bound with 100% acrylic polymers, can be applied to create a fine-grain, swirl, or traditional stucco freeform appearance.

Specialty Finishes

ProCoat can provide several other options beyond Sto’s stucco-type finishes. These specialty coatings allow plenty of options for renewing the overall look of any home or building.

·        Stolit® Milano

Excellent finish for interiors as well as exteriors, Stolit Milano is a fine-grained, almost smooth finish that applies easily in only two or three coats. The coating is available in a range of colors and is mildew-resistant.

·        Limestone Finish

Easy to apply, Sto’s Limestone coating is lightweight and provides a natural stone look and feel without the expense o the real thing. The material can be applied to a variety of substrates and adds a look of elegance and permanence to any structure.

·        Granitex™

To add a truly solid look to any building, Granitex is an acrylic based coating developed by Sto. The material is applied by spray and provides a coarse, natural stone texture. Granitex is available in a range of natural colors.

·        Decocoat™

Decocoat is a decorative covering that can be applied to masonry, plaster or drywall interiors and exteriors. The coating is available in over 30 shades and is composed of fine aggregate material bound in acrylic.

·        Granite Moab

With the texture of stone aggregate but with reflective material, Sto Granite is available in six different textures. To create an interesting and totally unique he material is trowel-applied.

·        Stotique™Tuscan

Stotique is a smooth, yet mottled finish that imparts an Old Europe look to any building..

·        Brick

A truly creative option, Sto Brick replicates a true brick finish without the expense. In a two step process using stencils, any building’s exterior can be transformed into a brick stately and colonial look.

Contact ProCoat

For more information about EIFS and the full range of cladding possibilities, contact the professionals at ProCoat. Their experts can review all of the options to identify the best solution for any home or building.

Call ProCoat at 303.322.9009.