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/

What is EIFS Stucco?

The newest versions of EIFS, Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, are durable, attractive, and highly energy efficient. These characteristics are a result of a scientifically refined system of layered materials that restrict energy loss, eliminate moisture accumulation, and provide a beautiful and lasting exterior appearance. While each layer has an important function, the exterior surface is comprised of a stucco-like material that offers substantial practical and aesthetic value.

What is the Makeup of an EIFS Finish?

In the very simplest terms, an EIFS coating consists of six layers.

Beginning from the inside out, the EIFS system is comprised of:

1.     Water-Resistant Barrier applied to the substrate of interior surface

2.     Adhesives or fasteners designed to permanently secure the next layer, the insulation board

3.     Quality Foam Insulation Board

4.     Moisture trapping and elimination barrier or a water-resistive barrier

5.     Reinforcement Mesh

6.     An attractive and durable Exterior Finish that is textured like standard stucco. This material creates an additional energy and moisture-resistant surface that imparts a classic stucco-like appearance.

What is the Difference Between Standard Stucco and EIFS Stucco?

The material applied as the outer surface of an EIFS wall is not the same as modern, traditional stucco. The latter is produced from Portland cement, sand, and water that presents a hard, brittle coating which has a notable potential for cracking as the building shifts due to temperature changes and ground settling.

While the exterior look is similar to normal stucco, EIFS coatings are colorfast and water resistant and are made from an acrylic, copolymer material. The substance resists cracking and has a softer feel than traditional stucco.

To determine the difference, if you press normal stucco with your thumb, it will feel hard. EIFS stucco will tend to give slightly because of its softer nature.

Contact ProCoat Systems in Denver

With improved application and materials, EIFS systems are proving to be an important option in the construction industry. Properly applied using the best materials, EIFS walls will last a lifetime and keep the interior well insulated and dry as they conserve a tremendous amount of energy each year. 

If you have questions, contact the EIFS experts at ProCoat Systems in Denver. They will be delighted to help evaluate the potential for EIFS inclusion in any upcoming home or commercial construction or remodel.

For more information regarding EIFS and any other of their high-quality cladding systems, visit the ProCoat System’s website or call today at 303-322-9009.

This post was originally published at procoatsystems.com/what-is-eifs-stucco/

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/

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/

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.