Benefits of Exterior Stucco (EIFS)
Although many people use the terms ‘stucco’ and ‘EIFS’ interchangeably, they are not the same thing. EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) is a relatively new and improved exterior wall cladding system with enhanced water resistance and insulation capabilities. High performance and lower maintenance capabilities has led to its widespread usage in Canada, USA, and across the world. Our team of experts explains the benefits of EIFS vs stucco to help you decide on the best option for your building.
What is Exterior EIFS Siding?
EIFS is a general category of non-load bearing building cladding systems providing exterior walls with an insulated, water-resistant, finished surface in an integrated composite material system. First introduced in North America in the 1960s, water infiltration issues led to major building damage. Today’s highly improved systems are developed with a drainage plane and extra insulation to combat traditional EIFS problems.
5 Advantages of Modern (EIFS)
The main differences in products developed over the last decade, like EFIS Dryvit, are the additional drainage and insulation capabilities as well as unlimited design flexibility. Here are some advantages of installing or switching to EIFS today.
- Energy-efficiency: According to a 2012 Better Buildings Federal (US) Awards Program, an EIFS clad building helps reduce energy use by nearly 45% in a 12 month period.
- Low maintenance: EIFS clad buildings have superior resistance to fading, chalking, yellowing, dirt, mould and mildew. They can be easily cleaned by just hosing them down, and hardly need painting.
- Crack-resistant: Enhanced flexibility helps EIFS absorb building movement and avoid the unsightly cracking problems common to stucco, concrete and brick exteriors.
- Moisture control: Research conducted by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory and supported by the US Department of Energy says that EIFS offers better thermal and moisture control when compared to brick, stucco and fibre-cement siding.
- Design flexibility: EIFS comes in virtually limitless colors and a wide variety of textures. They can also be fashioned into virtually any shape or design.
What is Hard Coat Stucco?
Hard coat stucco consists of Portland cement plaster and sand mixed with water to form a workable plaster. It should not be confused with EIFS or synthetic stucco systems used today.
Differences between One Coat Stucco and EIFS
| Traditional Stucco | Vs. EIFS |
|---|---|
| Cementious system | Acrylic-based system |
| No insulation board | Foam insulation panel with R-value |
| Some water absorption capabilities | Superior water resistance and drainage |
| Prone to cracking | Crack resistant |
| Solid coat | Some flexibility |
Are you undecided over whether exterior stucco installation or EIFS is the right choice for your project? Our experts will help you make the decision based on your building application requirements and budget. A unique Zero Defects 10 Year Guarantee™ on our stucco and EIFS installations further emphasizes the confidence we have in our finished product. Whether it is a new construction or you are switching from siding and poured concrete to an exterior insulation and finish system—count on our extensive EIFS repair and installation experience for the best results.
For EIFS details or a durable exterior finish that looks great, requires minimal maintenance and has superior resistance to the element, contact the exterior EIFS experts in Toronto.
Get in touch with the team at Zero Defects today to schedule your no-obligation consultation or book your building restoration project with us. Contact us to learn more or to Request a Free Estimate.
