EIFS looks a lot like stucco, but it's a unique material that may just be perfect for your home
EIFS is commonly referred to as “synthetic stucco,” which features six different layers.
EIFS has better insulation and less cracking under fluctuating temperatures compared to stucco.
EIFS is more expensive than stucco.
Whether you have a cottage in the woods or a bungalow on the beach, you want the exterior of your home to be durable, stand up to any weather, and boost the curb appeal of your home. Choosing the right exterior materials for your home can be tricky, but if you haven’t heard of EIFS, it may be the perfect choice for you. EIFS has its share of both pros and cons, but with a little know-how, you can determine if it’s right for your home.
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, or EIFS, is a type of wall cladding applied to a building’s exterior surfaces. EIFS is also referred to as “synthetic stucco” because it looks very similar to traditional stucco, but it is actually quite different.
The main difference is that stucco consists of two, and sometimes only one, thick layer of original stucco spread over a mesh wire. EIFS, on the other hand, consists of a total of six different layers. It’s also more expensive than stucco.
EIFS first hit the market in Europe after World War II as an energy-efficient and versatile cladding system. It gained popularity in the U.S. during the 1970s due to its ability to improve a building's energy efficiency by providing insulation and a weather-resistant finish.
Present-day EIFS has been upgraded from earlier versions and now has six layers:
1. A water-resistive barrier (WRB)
2. The addition of a drainage plane between the WRB and the insulation board that lets water drain out from behind the cladding
3. Insulation board that is usually made of expanded polystyrene (EPS)
4. Glass-fiber reinforcing mesh embedded in the base coat
5. A water-resistant base coat that’s applied on top of the insulation
6. A finish coat to prevent cracks
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems have many advantages when compared to other common exterior finishes, including:
More energy-efficient than conventional stucco over time
Weighs around 80% less than traditional stucco, despite the number of layers
Flexible, making it less susceptible to damage from drastic changes in temperatures
More durable than traditional stucco
Can shed water and be sealed at the windows and other openings, making it hard for water to leak in
Can be installed in a variety of textures and colors to make your home's exterior stand out
EIFS installations also have several disadvantages, including:
Installation is complex and uses more materials than some other exterior finishes, so it can be expensive
If EIFS siding needs replacement, the cost can be as high as $16 per square foot. Stucco costs an average of $6 to $9 per square foot
EIFS layers can’t breathe, which can allow moisture to become trapped and cause damage, including mold. But this depends in part on the installation
EIFS can require frequent inspections because of the potential of water seepage
Can be hard to clean and may need regular pressure washing
The biggest problem many have had with EIFS in the past is that it can allow moisture to become trapped within the layers and cause significant damage to your home. Without an inspection, this damage can go undetected until mold and rot have damaged the structure, causing expensive repairs.
However, over the past several years, the industry has gone to great lengths to improve its durability and eliminate any problems with trapped moisture. Today, EIFS is more flexible and has a higher R-value than traditional stucco, which means better insulation and less cracking as a result of fluctuating temperatures. The fiberglass layer provides more durability against harsh weather, making it a good choice in very hot or very cold temperatures.
If you’re buying a home with an EIFS finish, you might want to reach out to an insulation pro in your area who can inspect your EIFS system and ensure it’s up to standards.
