Exterior Insulating Foam Systems

EIFS

STO is the Industry leader of Exterior Insulating Foam Systems, and the brand we have selected for Gypsum Supply Co. to represent. Exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) are multi-component exterior wall systems that generally consist of:

  1. an insulation board;
  2. and adhesive and/or mechanical attachment of the insulation board to the substrate or existing wall
  3. surface (e.g., plywood, cement board, Dens Glass, Gyp Sheathing);
  4. a base coat reinforced with glass fiber mesh on the face of the insulation board; and
  5. a finish coat which protects the entire system and can be applied in a wide variety of colors and
  6. textures to create virtually any "look" imaginable, including that of stucco or natural stone.

Exterior Insulating Foam Systems Advantages

The major advantages over other building materials: maximum energy efficiency and unmatched design flexibility. An EIFS system brings insulation to exterior walls to provide an unbroken layer of insulation, which significantly reduces air infiltration. EIFS offer tremendous design versatility as well, introducing new shapes, colors and textures to the field of home design - in a durable, crack-resistant surface that requires minimal upkeep.

EIFS are sometimes generically referred to as "synthetic stucco" because of the similarity in appearance (to the casual observer) and the fact that both are installed by the plastering trade. The similarity ends there. With EIFS, manufacturers developed a material that virtually eliminates the problems associated with stucco. The resulting material is very flexible yet durable, with much less tendency to crack, fade or show other signs of wear. Best of all, EIFS can save time and money; they are installed in much less time (and with less disruption) than other exterior materials; add significant insulation value to a home, and require hardly any maintenance.

Exterior Insulating Foam Systems Fire Safety

EIFS materials do not contribute to fire. In fact, foam is less likely to burn than other building materials such as wood siding. In a situation where EIFS is ignited, it will self-extinguish. To ensure product safety, EIMA has conducted and assisted regulators with the testing of EIFS fire endurance and has developed tests using appropriate federal, military, ASTM or code-specific test methods to evaluate and measure performance with stringent acceptance criteria. Manufacturing member companies of EIMA routinely perform fire testing of EIFS to maintain the highest industry standards.

Exterior Insulating Foam Systems Maintenance

EIFS are virtually maintenance-free. Colors are integral to the finish coat, which virtually eliminates the need for painting. Due to technologically advanced 100% acrylic binders in the finish coat, the system resists fading, chalking or yellowing; so EIFS colors maintain a just-painted appearance, for a longer period of time.

Most common pollutants, such as dirt and dust, can simply be rinsed off of EIFS finish coats with water. As with most building materials, an occasional washing using simple cleaning agents is recommended to keep EIFS exteriors looking brand new. It is always best to contact an EIMA member for proper instructions before proceeding.

An annual inspection of sealants around doors, windows and other openings, routinely conducted by prudent homeowners regardless of the cladding material, is typically all that is required.

Exterior Insulating Foam Systems Insulation Value

An EIFS' R-value is relative the the thickness of the insulation board and other factors, but typically adds between R-4 and R-5.6 to a home. In combination with standard wall cavity insulation, this extra layer can have a significant effect on energy savings. See Tyvek section for other insulation options.