EIFS

Many people have heard horror stories about EIFS (Exterior Insulating Finish Systems).  Water Intrusion, wood rot and mold are commonly associated with EIFS.  Did you know that EIFS is actually considered to be one of the “best performing wall systems” when compared to brick, concrete block and cementious fiber board (siding) according to a government study which can be found here: http://www.eima.com/government-study.shtml.

The key to EIFS is how it is installed.  Problems occur when poorly installed or missing caulking and flashings allow water to leak into the space between the EIFS & substrate (the substrate is typically OSB or oriented-strand-board in residential construction) which can lead to wood rot & mold.  Since EIFS was designed to keep moisture out, moisture that does enter the system has no way to escape and can remained trapped within the wall.