On June 28th, in a post entitled EIFS vs. Stucco: Energy and More, we discussed the benefits of EIFS compared to stucco while pointing to another article entitled Why Property owners Should Choose EIFS over Stucco. In the post we discussed the advantages EIFS had with both energy and moisture control.
So, this raises the question for some if EIFS isn’t stucco, then what is the difference? First off, EIFS has addressed many of the issues from the past with the creation of a drainage system, creating what many call “New” EIFS. This “New” EIFS includes the drainage system and water resistant barrier creating a superior exterior cladding at addressing moisture control.
EIFS is an acrylic based system applied over an insulation panel, giving an “R” value to the wall; while stucco is a cementitious based system that does not give an “R” value to the wall, since it lacks insulation.
Brian Pelletier makes some good points in his article, discussing differences between both systems.
EIFS is a relatively new product which uses a few layers to modify traditional cement stucco and make it more flexible. This allows application in a thinner coating which saves time and material. The system also includes an insulation layer that improves system and building performance. The entire EIFS system consists of a moisture barrier, the foam insulation, cement basecoat, reinforcing mesh, and finishes.
Nice overall comparison put together by Brian Pelletier. If you want to read the article in its entirety visit: What the heck is the difference between EIFS and Stucco systems?
My house was made 2003 and have barrier eifs in Florida. We found two deficient areas with water damage and had it repaired and upgraded to the Moisture drainable system. The house was initially listed as stucco but once identified as eifs, we were dropped by our insurance company and have not been able to find any companies that provide insurance for eifs in florida even thought the rest of the house is fine and we upgraded the vulnerable areas. It appears that there is still a huge stigma regarding this product. Can anything be done about fostering a market here in florida for insurance. I forsee this getting worst. Many houses in my area are listed as stucco but are really synthetic stucco/eifs. They will be eventually identified and dropped indicriminantly. Any help would be appreciated.
EIFS and stucco are definitely different exterior claddings. Education is the key with this stigma. Unfortunately many people are behind in the times and their information, so they are unaware of “NEW” EIFS, or EIFS with drainage. Along with the several other advancements including durability. When it comes to EIFS insurance coverage there are a variety of places you can go, including our webpage http://www.eima.com/eifs-insurance.shtml. If you visit this page, you’ll be able to find some coverage options for your area, or you could reach out to VELA Insurance, who is the sponsor of the page and see what they have in the area. Hopefully this helps.