Eifs Siding Problems

This mechanism of deterioration.

Eifs siding problems.

That s fine when no moisture is present behind the covering but moisture can become trapped behind the layers if it seeps in. Windows doors electrical outlets roof flashings deck flashings below grade installation. The longer water penetrates the building envelope the greater the potential damage. Damage can be repaired but not easily.

Incorrect selection or application of sealants or missing sealants provides an easy path for water entry and premature deterioration. While the focus was on eifs clad houses it would soon be learned that the water intrusion problem occurred in all houses regardless of the cladding. To compensate for this the mesh is coated with plastic and the alkaline environment is buffered chemically. Inappropriate sealant may even lead to cohesive failure of the eifs finish coat.

Sealant joints are a major source of problems with eifs cladding. Impacts to the surface can result in cracks. The eifs layers bond together to form a covering that doesn t breathe. Moisture accumulation in the wall cavity.

What are the problems with eifs. Before the eifs industry knew what had happened the news media was reporting building defects in these eifs houses. In march of 1999 the nahb national association of home builders research center listed the most common problems they found that were associated with water intrusion in eif systems as being. 85 of all remediation costs less than 1500 and is usually a maintenance issue.

Major eifs problems with water trapping have caused rot and decay of homes using this product. Damage can be repaired siding replaced. These problems include moisture accumulation in the wall cavity subsequent wood damage and in more advanced cases mold growth and the infestation of pests such as carpenter ants or termites. Eifs are vulnerable to damage due to the combination of a thin stucco coating over a soft base make.

Eifs is usually sprayed onto mesh that is mounted to styrofoam type of material. Why eifs problems occur. Constant exposure to moisture can lead to dry rot in wood when moisture has no place to go. Using the soft styrofoam substrate allows the builder to use less of cement stucco material.

But eifs houses were still the focal point. The typical moisture damage in an eifs assembly is deterioration due to mold wood decay fungi and corrosion leading to decay loss of strength and discoloration. The problems with barrier eifs cladding all stem from water intrusion.