Many still think of EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finishing Systems) as synthetic stucco. But that EIFS is so last century. Over the years, significant improvements have made it an excellent choice for a durable, energy-efficient cladding system. Today’s EIFS with drainage is transforming architectural design with versatility and innovation.
Applied in multiple layers over exterior sheathing, today’s EIFS provides outstanding insulation and moisture protection. The typical components (layers) include:
- An air and water-resistive barrier over the substrate that prevents moisture from infiltrating the system.
- An adhesive applied in vertical ribbons that adheres the insulation to the sheathing and provides a source of drainage between the AWRB and insulation board.
- A layer of insulation. Options include graphite-enhanced polystyrene (GPS), mineral wool, expanded polystyrene (EPS) or extruded polystyrene (XPS).
- A layer of fiberglass mesh with embedded base coat provides reinforcement. It will also help protect against cracks and crumbling due to shifting foundations, thermal expansion, and freeze/thaw cycles.
- The system finish furnishes the color, texture, and protective nature of the structures’ exterior surfaces. A primer coat may be recommended to improve finish coat coverage and promote uniform substrate absorption.
National Study Validates the Use of Drainage EIFS
Are today’s EIFS really that different from the old EIFS? Studies have proven that today’s EIFS are superior in many ways.
Between 2005 and 2007, the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) conducted a study comparing the energy efficiency, moisture intrusion, and temperature control between EIFS, brick, stucco, and cementitious fiberboard siding. It concluded that drainage EIFS has superior moisture and temperature control over traditional brick, stucco, and fiber cement siding.
So, not only is today’s EIFS superior to the EIFS from the last century, but it is also superior to many modern types of cladding.
The Secret to Masterful, Award-Winning Creative Facades
When you hear EIFS, your brain may automatically think “stucco.” We’re about to change that. EIFS are perfect for virtually any project for a variety of reasons:
- Design flexibility with a wide range of textures, colors, and finishes
- Enhanced energy efficiency and weather resistance provided by EIFS
- Lightweight and adaptable nature, making it suitable for various building types
- Solution for both new construction and renovations
“Design flexibility” may be an exaggerated promise with some companies, but at Sto, we mean it. More and more innovative designs using EIFS are transforming projects into award-winning architectural masterpieces.
The owner of Kaleideum Children’s Museum in Winston-Salem, NC, envisioned a modern façade with white glass and bright color accents. They chose StoTherm® ci, a high-performance, energy-efficient wall cladding that integrates StoGuard® air and water-resistive barrier, EPS insulation, and drainage. That project won the EIFS Hero Award for showcasing innovative design and creative use of EIFS.
Greenhouse Dispensary is a retail outlet in Skokie, IL, that the Chicago Tribune described as “The world’s most visually arresting pot shop.” In this commercial project, the owners used StoTherm ci to create beautiful flowing organic shapes, which have earned wide praise in architectural circles. 3-D modeling and precision laser cutting of complex forms allowed the design to come together in pieces, and a Stolit® Milano finish made the completed building literally shine.
EIFS can also be used to create themed facades. The Ark Encounter in Williamstown, KY, lets visitors experience a life-size Noah’s Ark in a one-of-a-kind themed attraction. Sto product was even used to replicate the wood hull of this storied ship.
Hawaiian Bros Island Grill offers fresh and delicious island-inspired comfort food. This chain chose EIFS to help them create a modern façade that included use of StoCast Brick and StoCast Wood (link to www.stocorp.com/stocast) to create an island vibe.
EIFS Innovation: A Gallery of Real-World Examples
By now, you’ve seen the difference between the EIFS of the nineties and the EIFS of today. Everywhere you look, EIFS is being used to push creative boundaries. In our gallery alone, we have nearly forty EIFS projects. Below are a few that used EIFS to transform their projects.
River Bend Food Pantry
Location: Galesburg, IL
Building Type: Retail
Construction Type: Renovation
West Lake Commons Lifestyle Retail Center
Location: Martinez, GA
Building Type: Retail
Construction Type: New
White Castle
Location: Orlando, FL
Building Type: Retail
Construction Type: New
EIFS with Drainage: Revolutionizing Building Facades
EIFS is not synthetic stucco. It’s time to put that association to rest for good. Because EIFS is transforming architectural design. Explore EIFS for your next creative facade project. In addition to a durable and energy-efficient cladding system, you will gain access to Sto’s modern design tools and design experts. Let’s transform your next project together!
To learn more about EIFS and explore Creative Facades, visit www.stocorp.com/eifs/.
