EIFS Description

Imported from Europe following the Second World War, EIFS (pronounced "eefs") have become known as a highly desirable wall cladding among knowledgeable insurance underwriters, thanks to their exceptional insulating qualities, durability, and propensity to resist moisture and mold.

These multilayered systems typically consist of a polystyrene-based insulation board, a cementitious base coat reinforced by glass fiber mesh, and an attractive, acrylic-based finish coat.

Though they resemble stucco, EIFS offer far more flexibility than stucco, and can be fashioned into a variety of architectural shapes, including soft curves and geometric designs. Their unique flexibility makes them ideal for special elements such as porticos, archways, ornate window and door heads and decorative molding and trim.

EIFS also outperform most other exterior wall claddings in insulating against cold in winter and heat in summer. That's because EIFS panels totally envelop the exterior wall.

By design, EIFS are barrier systems that prevent moisture from penetrating the face of the EIFS wall covering. But, as with any exterior cladding, water can enter behind or around the system, if there are defects or leaks in the other components of the wall envelope.

Therefore, as with all claddings, construction details must be correctly designed and installed to work with EIFS.

Some EIFS now come with a drainage feature that provides additional tolerance for moisture in the event of a breach in the EIFS. Drainage systems, however, should not be viewed as a substitute for sound construction practices.