EIFS stands for Exterior Insulation and Finish System. It is a type of wall cladding used on buildings to provide insulation, a decorative finish, and protection from the elements.
This guide explains the types of EIFS systems, their components, and more.
Jump right in:
- Polymer-Based EIFS (PB EIFS)
- Polymer-Modified EIFS (PM EIFS)
- Drainage EIFS
- Barrier EIFS
- Impact-Resistant EIFS
- Prefabricated EIFS Panels
What are the Components of an EIFS System?
Depend Exteriors: Your Trusted EIFS Contractor in Edmonton
Call (780) 710-3972 if you have any questions.
1. Polymer-Based EIFS (PB EIFS)
Polymer-based EIFS, also known as soft-coat systems, are the most common type of EIFS.- Composition: PB EIFS uses expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation boards, a polymer-based base coat reinforced with fibreglass mesh, and a thin acrylic finish coat.
- Characteristics: These systems are lightweight and flexible, making them resistant to cracking.
- Applications: PB EIFS are ideal for residential and low-rise commercial buildings in Edmonton and areas with moderate weather conditions.
- Advantages:
- High energy efficiency due to continuous insulation.
- Design versatility, allowing various finishes and textures.
2. Polymer-Modified EIFS (PM EIFS)
Polymer-modified EIFS, or hard-coat systems, are more rigid than PB EIFS.- Composition: PM EIFS uses a cementitious base coat reinforced with fibreglass mesh over extruded polystyrene (XPS) or EPS insulation boards. The finish coat is acrylic or mineral-based.
- Characteristics: These systems are thicker and more impact-resistant than PB EIFS.
- Applications: PM EIFS are used in high-traffic areas, such as commercial buildings and urban developments in Edmonton.
- Advantages:
- Offers durability and resistance to physical impacts.
- Suitable for areas with heavy pedestrian or vehicle activity.
- Considerations: Heavier than PB EIFS, requiring stronger substrates.
3. Drainage EIFS
Drainage EIFS systems address moisture management issues by incorporating a drainage plane.- Composition: Drainage EIFS include a water-resistive barrier (WRB) installed over the substrate, an adhesive to attach EPS boards, and a base coat with a reinforced mesh. A finish coat completes the system.
- Characteristics: These systems allow water to drain through weep holes or other drainage features.
- Applications: Drainage EIFS are essential for buildings in Edmonton, where freeze-thaw cycles and high humidity can cause moisture-related issues.
- Advantages:
- Prevents water buildup behind the insulation layer.
- Protects the substrate from mold and rot.
- Considerations: Proper installation is critical to ensure effective moisture management.
4. Barrier EIFS
Barrier EIFS systems rely on the outer finish coat to block water from entering the structure.- Composition: Barrier EIFS consists of EPS boards attached directly to the substrate, followed by a base coat with fibreglass mesh and a finish coat.
- Characteristics: These systems do not include a drainage plane or WRB.
- Applications: Barrier EIFS are suitable for areas with low rainfall or where proper sealing can be ensured.
- Advantages:
- Lower initial cost compared to drainage EIFS.
- Simple and quick installation process.
- Considerations: Vulnerable to water intrusion if not perfectly sealed.
5. Impact-Resistant EIFS
Impact-resistant EIFS systems are reinforced to withstand physical damage.- Composition: These systems include a higher-density insulation board and additional layers of fibreglass mesh in the base coat.
- Characteristics: Designed to resist dents, cracks, and other damages caused by hail or heavy traffic.
- Applications: Commonly used in schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings in Edmonton, where durability is crucial.
- Advantages:
- Enhanced longevity in high-impact environments.
- Reduced maintenance costs.
- Considerations: Higher material and labor costs compared to standard EIFS.
6. Prefabricated EIFS Panels
Prefabricated EIFS panels are manufactured off-site and installed as complete sections.- Composition: These panels are made of the same materials as PB or PM EIFS but are fabricated in a controlled environment.
- Characteristics: Panels are custom-designed to fit specific building dimensions and requirements.
- Applications: Prefabricated EIFS panels are ideal for large-scale commercial or industrial projects in Edmonton.
- Advantages:
- Faster installation time.
- Consistent quality control during manufacturing.
3 Types of EIFS Panels
EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems) panels offer versatile building cladding solutions. Each panel type has specific features to meet various construction and design needs. Below are the three main types of EIFS panels and their applications.1. Structural Panel Systems
Structural panel systems are engineered to act as both cladding and structural support, integrating seamlessly into the building’s framework.- Composition: These panels include an insulated core, a reinforced base coat, and a structural frame, often made of metal or composite materials.
- Characteristics:
- Provides both insulation and structural stability.
- Reduces the need for additional framing or support elements.
- Applications: Suitable for large commercial buildings, industrial warehouses, and high-rise structures where combined cladding and structural support are required.
- Advantages:
- Eliminates the need for separate insulation and structural framing.
- Streamlines the construction process by integrating multiple functions.
- Considerations: Higher upfront costs due to the dual functionality.
2. Lightweight Panel Systems
Lightweight panel systems provide energy efficiency and ease of installation while reducing the load on building structures.- Composition: These panels use expanded polystyrene (EPS) or extruded polystyrene (XPS) as the core insulation material, covered by a reinforced base coat and a durable finish coat.
- Characteristics:
- Lightweight, reducing structural load.
- Easy to transport and handle during installation.
- Applications: Commonly used in residential and low-rise commercial buildings where structural weight is a concern.
- Advantages:
- Reduces labor and installation time due to its low weight.
- Energy-efficient, with high thermal resistance.
- Considerations: This may require additional reinforcement for high-impact areas to prevent damage.
3. Metal Pan Systems
Metal pan systems incorporate metal components into the EIFS assembly for enhanced durability and structural integrity.- Composition: These systems combine metal framing or backing with traditional EIFS layers, including insulation, base coat, and finish coat.
- Characteristics:
- Provides firm support for the EIFS layers.
- It resists warping, making it suitable for buildings exposed to temperature fluctuations.
- Applications: Ideal for high-rise buildings, industrial facilities, and structures requiring added durability and stability.
- Advantages:
- Withstands severe weather conditions and heavy loads.
- Compatible with a variety of finishes, including textured or smooth coatings.
- Considerations: Heavier and more expensive than lightweight panels due to the inclusion of metal components.
What are the Components of an EIFS System?
An EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) consists of multiple layers, each serving a specific purpose. The main components are:- Substrate:
The substrate is the base layer to which the EIFS system is applied.
- Common materials: Plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), or masonry.
- Purpose: Provides structural support for the EIFS layers.
- Water-Resistive Barrier (WRB):
The WRB is a protective layer that prevents moisture from penetrating the substrate.
- Optional in some systems, essential for drainage EIFS.
- Material: Fluid-applied membranes, sheets, or coatings.
- Adhesive:
The adhesive attaches the insulation board to the substrate or WRB.
- Common type: Cementitious or polymer-based adhesive.
- Purpose: Ensures the insulation stays securely attached.
- Insulation Board:
The insulation board provides the system’s thermal efficiency.
- Materials: Expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS), or mineral wool.
- Purpose: Reduces energy loss by providing continuous insulation.
- Base Coat:
The base coat is applied over the insulation board and reinforced with fibreglass mesh.
- Purpose: Protects the insulation and distributes stress to prevent cracks.
- Material: Polymer-based or cementitious compound.
- Reinforcement Mesh:
The mesh is embedded in the base coat for added strength.
- Material: Fiberglass.
- Purpose: Improves durability and impact resistance.
- Finish Coat:
The finish coat is the outermost layer that gives EIFS its decorative appearance.
- Material: Acrylic-based finish in various textures and colours.
- Purpose: Provides weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
Depend Exteriors: Your Trusted EIFS Contractor in Edmonton
Depend Exteriors specializes in installing and maintaining all types of EIFS systems. With over 13 years of experience, we understand Edmonton’s unique climate and building requirements. We help you choose the right EIFS system for your project, ensuring long-lasting results.- Call (780) 710-3972 to schedule a free consultation and estimate.
- Visit us in Edmonton, AB, to learn more about our EIFS solutions.
FAQs
The two main types of EIFS systems are Polymer-Based EIFS (PB EIFS) and Polymer-Modified EIFS (PM EIFS). PB EIFS, also known as soft-coat systems, are lightweight and flexible, making them resistant to cracking. PM EIFS, or hard-coat systems, are more rigid and durable, providing better resistance to physical impacts.
The difference between PM and PB EIFS lies in their composition and application. PB EIFS uses a polymer-based base coat with flexible fibreglass mesh, which is lightweight and ideal for residential projects. PM EIFS uses a cementitious base coat with higher-density insulation, offering greater impact resistance and making them suitable for high-traffic or commercial areas.
An EIFS cladding system is an exterior wall system that provides continuous insulation and a decorative finish. It consists of layers, including an insulation board (EPS or XPS), a reinforced base coat with fibreglass mesh, and a weather-resistant finish coat. EIFS cladding is valued for its energy efficiency, moisture management, and design versatility.
EIFS and Dryvit are not the same but are closely related. EIFS is the broader term for Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, while Dryvit is a specific brand that manufactures EIFS products. Dryvit systems are a type of EIFS, but not all EIFS are Dryvit.
