Exterior Insulation Finish Systems (EIFS) have been used as a façade material for many years in this country. In order to properly maintain and restore this type of exterior finish, it is important to know how the system was installed. This is usually something that doesn’t meet the eye.
Defects or damage to EIFS can be a simple aesthetic concern, or it can be an indicator of an overall system failure. If your wall is talking to you, pay attention.
For example, if the sealant in the control joint does not have a good bond or has pulled away, one might suggest that it simply needs re-caulked. Further investigation might indicate that the original joint was not properly installed. Thus, it would need restored and modified before it could receive new sealant so that it doesn’t immediately fail again.
Another example might be fractures at window openings, which are common. It is a natural point of movement. Quite often it is just a crack in the finish coat. However, other times it can be indicative of a system failure from missing components within the EIFS, requiring system replacement or modification. Either way, it can permit moisture intrusion.
Impact damage typically results in the need for a minor repair, but heavy damage that penetrates the finish, pierces the mesh, and exposes the insulation board should receive a full system patch or segmental replacement.
Regardless of the condition, repairs and restoration processes should be properly evaluated and the best course of action determined for each scenario. If your wall is talking to you, be sure to call a professional such as Trisco Construction Services to evaluate the severity of your issue.