Case Study:
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EIFS offers architects a compelling solution for projects requiring both high aesthetic impact and robust building science performance.
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Project Overview
The Tulsa Premium Outlets project presented a demanding set of performance and construction objectives typical of contemporary open-air retail centers. The design called for a visually dynamic environment capable of attracting and retaining high-value tenants while minimizing operational energy loads. Moreover, the project faced an aggressive timeline, requiring building envelope solutions that allowed rapid progression of interior construction trades. Located in a region characterized by high summer temperatures and intermittent severe weather events, the project also demanded robust moisture control and thermal resilience. Selection of the building envelope system needed to account for long-term durability, fade resistance, and environmental considerations such as low-emitting materials. |
Project Information
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System Selection and Design Rationale
EIFS with Drainage was selected as the principal opaque wall system due to its combination of continuous insulation, integrated moisture management, and versatile finish capabilities.
The system design incorporated nine distinct color variations and two textured finishes to create an architecturally rich façade. Further dimensional interest was achieved through custom cross-hatching patterns cut into expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation boards, along with prefabricated EPS shapes, including dental moldings and ornamental profiles.
Material compatibility was a major consideration. The EIFS manufacturer's fluid-applied air/water-resistive barrier system was employed not only behind the EIFS but also behind masonry veneer assemblies installed elsewhere on the project. This allowed the envelope to be sealed early in the construction sequence with a uniform barrier material, simplifying transitions between cladding types and reducing potential failure points.
Additionally, the use of a single-source supplier for EIFS components, WRB, and termination accessories enabled provision of a unified warranty, covering diverse critical interfaces across the exterior envelope.
Construction Sequencing and Efficiency
Utilization of a fluid-applied barrier system behind all claddings expedited the enclosure of the building, allowing interior trades to mobilize and perform work significantly earlier than would have been feasible with conventional building wrap or mechanically fastened barriers.
Where substrate irregularities were present, such as inconsistencies in the poured concrete slab, compatible patching and transition products from the EIFS manufacturer were applied. This approach ensured continuity of water-tightness without introducing dissimilar materials that could compromise performance.
At window perimeters and signage box installations, detailing was accomplished with field-applied transition membranes and liquid flashing, all sourced from the same manufacturer to maintain chemical and physical compatibility.
Performance Outcomes
The primary performance objectives — energy efficiency, moisture control, aesthetic durability, and schedule adherence — were successfully met:
Moreover, EIFS assemblies provide architects the freedom to specify highly customized façade treatments without sacrificing thermal performance or moisture resilience, supporting both design and sustainability objectives simultaneously.
EIFS with Drainage was selected as the principal opaque wall system due to its combination of continuous insulation, integrated moisture management, and versatile finish capabilities.
The system design incorporated nine distinct color variations and two textured finishes to create an architecturally rich façade. Further dimensional interest was achieved through custom cross-hatching patterns cut into expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation boards, along with prefabricated EPS shapes, including dental moldings and ornamental profiles.
Material compatibility was a major consideration. The EIFS manufacturer's fluid-applied air/water-resistive barrier system was employed not only behind the EIFS but also behind masonry veneer assemblies installed elsewhere on the project. This allowed the envelope to be sealed early in the construction sequence with a uniform barrier material, simplifying transitions between cladding types and reducing potential failure points.
Additionally, the use of a single-source supplier for EIFS components, WRB, and termination accessories enabled provision of a unified warranty, covering diverse critical interfaces across the exterior envelope.
Construction Sequencing and Efficiency
Utilization of a fluid-applied barrier system behind all claddings expedited the enclosure of the building, allowing interior trades to mobilize and perform work significantly earlier than would have been feasible with conventional building wrap or mechanically fastened barriers.
Where substrate irregularities were present, such as inconsistencies in the poured concrete slab, compatible patching and transition products from the EIFS manufacturer were applied. This approach ensured continuity of water-tightness without introducing dissimilar materials that could compromise performance.
At window perimeters and signage box installations, detailing was accomplished with field-applied transition membranes and liquid flashing, all sourced from the same manufacturer to maintain chemical and physical compatibility.
Performance Outcomes
The primary performance objectives — energy efficiency, moisture control, aesthetic durability, and schedule adherence — were successfully met:
- The continuous insulation layer inherent to the EIFS design substantially reduced thermal bridging, supporting improved HVAC system performance and occupant comfort.
- Drainage capabilities integrated into the EIFS assembly provided an effective mechanism for managing incidental water intrusion, particularly critical given the open-air nature of the retail environment.
- High-performance finish coatings, formulated without VOCs or APEOs, exhibited superior UV resistance, reducing color fade potential and associated maintenance costs over the long term.
- The consolidated warranty framework streamlined owner risk management and assured long-term building envelope integrity.
Moreover, EIFS assemblies provide architects the freedom to specify highly customized façade treatments without sacrificing thermal performance or moisture resilience, supporting both design and sustainability objectives simultaneously.
