Excerpts
from the July 2000 Builder/Architect
Washington Metro Edition
....... Stucco buildings
are also an important part of
architectural history. Today's exterior
insulation and finish systems (EIFS)
allow the look of stucco to be expanded
across regions where original stucco
products could never stand up to the
elements. At the same time, these EIF
systems retain and improve upon some of
the original insulating and flexible
application attributes that authentic
stucco provided. While the EIFS industry faced
criticism early on because of water
infiltration problems, builders today
realize that the responsibility primarily
lies with properly designing flashings
and using the right windows to keep
moisture from damaging an EIF
system. But the EIFS industry
decided several years ago that it was
necessary to design weather protection
barriers into their systems to
accommodate the realities of
construction. They took an aggressive
stance on the concerns by creating new
water drainage systems and extending
warranties to back up the assurance that
EIFS is a durable product. Distributors
have also taken a strong role in training
builders on application methods and
monitoring what is being done in the
field.
EIF systems offer
limitless design options, making them
particularly practical in the quest to
build a distinctive home. Incorporating
custom-cut expanded polystyrene (EPS)
shapes into a building's exterior is a
cost-effective way to achieve a special
look. Decorative moldings, quoins,
arches, and other intricate shapes are
some of the possibilities. Once cut to
specifications, the foam shapes can then
be attached to exterior building
materials.
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