EIFS Stucco Systems

An EIFS system, or Exterior Insulation and Finish System, does not rely on a hard base coat but instead on thinner layers of modified materials. EIFS provides continuous insulation, allowing for a wide range of design flexibility and offering a highly energy efficient option. Compared to hard coat stucco systems, EIFS generally provides both insulation properties and durable water barriers.

A typical EIFS process consists of the following:

• A waterproofing application is applied over an exterior sheathing before the insulation board
• The insulation board, made of polystyrene or polyisocyanurate (ISO) foam, is secured to the exterior wall with special adhesive installed vertical ribbons to create an effective rainscreen system.
• A water-resistant base coat is applied on top of the insulation. This is then reinforced with fibreglass mesh to fortify coat strength
• A stucco finish is applied on top of the water-resistant base coat, resulting in an attractive, consistent finish