Exterior Insulation Finishing System (EIFS)
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) are continuous insulation — multi-layered exterior wall systems that are used in homes and commercial buildings. EIFS were introduced in the US in the 1960s and were first used on commercial buildings and then later on homes.
EIFS a nonload bearing, exterior wall cladding system that consists of an insulation board attached either adhesively or mechanically, or both, to the substrate; an integrally reinforced base coat; and a textured protective finish coat.
”A building’s façade is normally the largest surface area between its internal and external environment – where a great amount of heat loss can occur.
Thermal insulation of the external walls from the outside is an efficient way of protecting against thermal energy loss”
Stone wool in EIFS provides unique benefits to traditional systems that incorporate foam plastic insulation products. Noncombustible, water repellent and vapor permeable to support long-term durability, and improved acoustic benefits for occupants, are part of the value offered by a fully engineered façade system with stone wool insulation.
Shown from exterior to interior:
- EIFS finish coat ( over primer , where required ).
- Base coat with reinforcing mesh.
- Plastic fastener for attach stone wool.
- Stone Wool.
- Cement base waterproof (required incase mechanically attached ).
- Wall structure.
Benefits of EIFS
Installing EIFS provides a range of beneficial qualities that makes them an ideal product for new construction and retrofit projects alike. It should be noted, however, that these benefits depend entirely on whether the EIFS is properly installed by experienced professionals.
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Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is perhaps the most important benefit offered by an EIFS and is a characteristic that is integral to their design. An EIFS typically possesses an R-value between 4 and 5.6 per inch and helps buildings reduce their overall energy use by approximately 45% over a 12-month period, according to a 2022 Better Buildings Federal (North America) Awards program.
On average an EIFS is approximately 84% more energy-efficient than comparable cladding options, outperforming stucco (Traditional Plaster), brick, stone, and more.
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Moisture Control
As long as it features a WRB, drainage channel, and is installed properly, EIFS offers excellent moisture control. Recent research from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory states the EIFS is “the best performance cladding” with regard to moisture and thermal control compared to fiber cement, stucco(Traditional Plaster), and brick siding.
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Durability & Resiliency
EIFS is also extremely durable and resilient towards weathering, in large part thanks to the use of acrylic binders, which help prevent yellowing, chalking, and fading. Unlike stucco and many other exterior finishing systems, this allows an EIFS to maintain its original appearance for a long time. An EIFS is also designed to be flexible, making it less likely to develop cracks as a result of temperature changes or seismic activity.
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Low Maintenance
Once installed an EIFS is very easy to maintain, typically only requiring periodic cleaning with low pressure cool water, a non-acidic cleaner, and soft-bristled brush. Choosing the right colors and performance-enhancing additives for the EIFS’ finish can help reduce the need for maintenance even further, limiting the need for frequent resurfacing or recoating.
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Versatility
Because EIFS may be fashioned into virtually any shape or design and support a wide range of finish colors, patterns, and textures, it is extremely versatile and capable of complementing a variety of architectural styles. Skilled EIFS applicators can take advantage of this extreme versatility and design malleability to create a wide variety of exterior architectural elements—like columns, pillars, cornerstones, cornices, arches, and more—that otherwise might be cost prohibitive using conventional construction practices.
Reference:
1.ROCK WOOL (Exterior Insulation Finishing System) application guide
2.gbdmagazine
3.STO corp