Case Study:
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EIFS with Drainage is not only suitable—but instrumental—for sustainable retrofits in tall, occupied buildings. Its application contributes to energy performance, aesthetic upgrades, and long-term operational savings, and helps New York City and State meet ambitious climate goals.
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Project Overview
Located in East Harlem, The Heritage is a prominent 1970s-era residential development consisting of 600 rental apartments across two 35-story towers and a 12-story building. As part of New York State’s Empire Building Challenge, this retrofit exemplifies the role of EIFS with Drainage in achieving deep energy retrofits in high-rise, multi-family housing—advancing environmental goals while enhancing tenant comfort. |
Key Project Highlights:
Location: New York, New York Building Type: Multi-Family Architect: Inglese Architects Manufacturer: Sto Corp. System Type: EIFS Construction Method: Field-Built |
Role of EIFS in Deep Energy Retrofits
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) with Drainage were selected as a core component of the building envelope upgrade. Chosen for their lightweight composition, thermal performance, and design adaptability, EIFS played a critical role in aligning the retrofit with carbon-reduction and electrification goals.
Key Benefits of EIFS with Drainage in This Project:
Aligned with Statewide Climate Goals
This project is a flagship participant in NYSERDA’s Empire Building Challenge—a $50 million initiative promoting decarbonization in New York’s building stock. The challenge prioritizes:
Results and Projected Impact
The retrofit included:
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) with Drainage were selected as a core component of the building envelope upgrade. Chosen for their lightweight composition, thermal performance, and design adaptability, EIFS played a critical role in aligning the retrofit with carbon-reduction and electrification goals.
Key Benefits of EIFS with Drainage in This Project:
- Energy Efficiency: Continuous insulation and minimized thermal bridging supported aggressive site energy-use intensity (EUI) reduction targets.
- Durability & Moisture Management: Integrated drainage channels help manage incidental moisture, protecting the legacy structure while extending the life of the façade.
- Minimal Disruption: The lightweight system was ideal for retrofit conditions, particularly in an occupied residential setting where tenant disruption had to be minimized.
- Cost-Effectiveness: EIFS enabled faster installation and reduced material costs compared to traditional cladding systems.
Aligned with Statewide Climate Goals
This project is a flagship participant in NYSERDA’s Empire Building Challenge—a $50 million initiative promoting decarbonization in New York’s building stock. The challenge prioritizes:
- Electrification of heating systems
- Energy flexibility
- Tenant energy use reduction
Results and Projected Impact
The retrofit included:
- EIFS with Drainage system installation
- High-performance windows
- Modernized building electrification
- Achieve a 54% reduction in site energy-use intensity
- Eliminate on-site fossil fuel combustion
- Attain carbon neutrality by 2030
