ABSTRACT

The most common criticisms of exterior insulation finish system (EIFS) cladding stem from the most common deficiencies:

• Detailing and construction of joints, junctures and interfaces with windows, etc.
• Sensitivity of workmanship, as it affects performance
• Staining (moss, mildew, dirt accumulation)
• Water penetration
• Impact damage and cracking

The elements of an EIFS clad wall design must include flashing and adequate interfacing components with fenestration, waterproofing and other cladding systems. To design an EIFS clad wall that will last 30, 50 or even the possibility of 100 years, requires that one foresee the loads upon the wall assembly and design the wall to ensure these loads will be sustained with minimal detrimental effect, keeping in mind the serviceability and maintenance.

Towards predicting the service life of EIFS, thus far over 25 years has been achieved by some EIFS clad buildings. The author identifies the key performance parameters that affect EIFS service life, and provides recommendations for designers to follow in designing the assembly of a given EIFS clad wall assembly. The most critical parameters include the moisture management of the EIFS (including substrate considerations), limitations of use and exposure, consistency of testing the components and proprietary systems with actual application and designing for serviceability and maintenance.

The emphasis of this article shall be to educate design professionals on how to better ensure their expectations may be realized thereby providing some assurance of performance.