EIFS (pronounced eefs) is an acronym for Exterior Insulation and Finish System. An EIFS consists of five basic components:

• Insulation board, made of polystyrene or polyisocyanurate foam
• A specially formulated adhesive and/or mechanical attachment of the insulation to a substrate
• Glass fiber reinforcing mesh
• A durable, water-resistant base coat, which is applied on top of the insulation that functions as the weather barrier
• An attractive and durable finish coat - typically using acrylic co-polymer technology- which is both colorfast and crack-resistant

"PM" refers to Polymer Modified and "PB" refers to Polymer Based. Class PB EIFS typically use adhesively fastened expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation, and glass fiber reinforcing mesh embedded in a nominal 1/16 inch (1.6mm) base coat. PB EIFS can incorporate additional layers of base coat and reinforcing mesh to achieve higher impact resistance. An EIFS finish coat is used over the base coat. PB EIFS represents the majority of EIFS used in North America.

The national model building codes generally limit foam thickness to a 4-inch maximum. However, precedence exists for using thicker expanded polystyrene foam insulation when acceptable to local authorities having jurisdiction.

Coatings can be directly applied to a sheltered soffit area. Direct application to Dens-Glass Gold as a primary wall cladding is not approved other than for specific.

At wood framed buildings only. Unless there is a Web Truss floor joist, wood I-beam Truss-joist type, or Laminated Veneer Lumber floor joist, then there is no expansion joint needed.

A minimum gap of 3/4" for expansion joints unless otherwise specified by the architect.

Periodic cleaning is suggested. Sealants should be reviewed every year or so. All cladding systems, including brick and vinyl, require some maintenance.

Take a visual inspection every six months, when you are doing your Spring and Fall cleanup. Look for cracks, bulges, stains, gouges, penetrations, vandalism, etc. Repair any damage or deficiencies.

Basically, you can use mild cleaning detergents, and low water pressure "300/500 PSI", cool water, and a soft bristle brush. Do not use the following: any cleaner that is solvent based; high water pressure; hot water; or wire brushes.

For situations where you might wish to change the color of the building, or paint the building for some other reason, EIFS manufactures several quality paint products to re-coat and enhance the existing coating. Other alternatives are to use a quality high grade 100% acrylic exterior grade paint.

Call Exterior Designs, Inc.

The best way is to repaint the area.

If properly maintained, the cladding will last a long time. The first EIFS walls in the US were installed in 1969; most are still in service. EIFS was first used after WWII in Europe. Today it is a large part of their exterior cladding market.

L/240.

Expansion joints are required where there are changes in substrate, at floor lines in typical wood framed construction, and where movement is anticipated in the wall assembly and where expansion joints exist in the substrate.

No.

No.

This is an issue that is the responsibility of the design professional.

The selection and/or location of a vapor retarder is project specific based on numerous factors including climate, wall components, etc., and as such is a design consideration that is the responsibility of the design professional.

The EPS insulation board should be rasped down until the yellowing is removed. Make sure that there is at least 3/4" of insulation board remaining after the rasping is done.

EIFS manufacturer's recommend an ultra-low modulus sealant that is capable of 100% elongation and 50% compression.

Back wrapping is the traditional method of encapsulating the insulation board edge. Back wrapping simply means that the insulation board is wrapped in fabric reinforced base coat at edges at terminations and that the mesh extends behind the insulation board at least 21/2". Edge wrapping means that mesh reinforced base coat extends over the edges of insulation at terminations and onto the framing or masonry.

Vinyl Track is used in many locations as an alternative to back wrapping. Although it cannot be used in every situation, it provides a convenient alternative to back wrapping, and is a time saving accessory to applicators.

The EIF system should be terminated above pavement and above rooflines a minimum of 2 inches. The system should be terminated a minimum of 6 inches above grade at un-paved areas.

A "V" groove reveal cannot be considered a control joint since a true joint is a "built-in" break in the system where cracking is anticipated.