EIFS can be used to achieve architectural detail on an array of commercial structures. Pictured above is LA Fitness, Wyomissing, PA., built by High Construction.

This isn’t your grandfather’s EIFS. Today’s EIFS offers design flexibility, thermal performance, and long life. Now government studies back it up as the “best performing wall system.”

What is EIFS?
EIFS (short for Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, and pronounced “ee-fis” or “eeefs”) are multi-layered exterior wall systems that are available in an endless array of colors, shapes, textures, and finishes.

• EIFS can be used on an array of building types, such as offices, shopping centers, hotels, churches, and educational facilities.
• Technically speaking, EIFS typically consist of the following components:
  
• Insulation board secured to the exterior wall surface with a specially formulated adhesive and mechanical attachment.
• Durable, water-resistant base coat applied over the insulation and reinforced with fiberglass mesh.
• Attractive and durable finish coat that is crack-resistant and colorfast, and can be tinted to any shade.
  

A Brief History
EIFS have been used on commercial buildings in the United States for more than 30 years; and account for approximately Approximately 30 percent of the commercial exterior wall market in the United States. In fact, Dryvit Systems, one of the original manufacturers of EIFS, claims that more than 1 in every 11 commercial buildings in the United States features Dryvit-brand EIFS on the exterior.

This success may come as a surprise to those recalling the national controversy and litigation surrounding water leaks in
EIFS-clad homes in the mid-nineties. The bad publicity left many individuals in the residential market skeptical—a
notion that has trickled into the minds of commercial consumers, despite the system’s consistent growth.

The skepticism, however, is fading, due in part from the numerous technology improvements in EIFS; the advocacy of
EIFS Industry Members Association (EIMA), an industry trade group; and the continued successful implementation
in the commercial market. Recent industry research has helped, too.

In 2006, preliminary findings from a three-year study funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) identified
EIFS as the “best performing wall system,” outperforming brick, stucco, concrete block, and cement board in handling moisture and with superior thermal performance.

Improvements, Flexibility, and Savings
Contractors with experience in creating or installing EIFS readily support the option.

“Although we’ve long been convinced of EIFS’ benefits for almost any building, recent technology improvements are outstanding,” says Ron Nolt, president of Lancaster, Pa.-based Nolt & Nolt, a plaster and stucco contractor.

Among those improvements is a moisture drainage system created to remove any incidental moisture infiltration that may occur over time at light fixtures, vents, or other penetration points. An exterior finish improvement known as dirt pick-up resistance allows rainfall to readily wash away any dirt that may have adhered.

Coldwell Banker Homesale Service Group's office in Lancaster, Pa., built by High Construction, features an EIFS exterior.

Skilled applicators can create an amazing variety of detail and color on a building’s exterior with modest cost. “If you can think it, you can do it,” adds Nolt. “You can even make it look like other materials, such as brick or stone. There are almost no limitations when it comes to creating an elaborate design, yet unadorned surfaces are also popular because of their classic look.”

The flexibility of EIFS allows customers to change their minds during the actual building process and “cost effectively add finish or trim detail,” says Glenn Frailey, general manager of Martin Plastering Contractors of Terre Hill, Pa. “We can easily make a big difference in the look of a building, and customers are pleased that the additional detail makes their buildings stand out.” The overall versatility, durability, and insulation properties of EIFS continue to lead the list of benefits. Frailey says, “There’s no question the higher insulating R-values of EIFS save money, which customers always like to hear.”

Industry Endorsements
As with many technologies, the EIFS and related industries provide education and certification programs that produce well-trained designers, manufacturers, and installers.

For example, Frailey’s company is an EIFSmart contractor with staff that passed testing through the Association of Wall and Ceiling Contractors.

Stephan Klamke, executive director of EIMA, says the industry has experienced uninterrupted sales growth since 1999, recently as much as 15 percent per year.

“EIFS products address the longevity, maintenance, and aesthetic aspects of a building,” said Klamke. “When considering factors such as initial cost, operating cost, energy cost, and return on investment, EIFS positively impacts the bottom line.”