Exterior Insulation Finishing Systems (EIFS), Commonly Known as Synthetic Stucco.
Stucco, styrofoam to traditional.
Different stucco systems.
Traditional to synthetic stucco polystyrene boards.
EIFS was developed in Europe following WWII and applied to masonry walls of older buildings to restore appearance and improve thermal performance with its continuous insulation.
The U.S. began using EIFS in the early 1970s and adapted it for wood-and steel-framed walls with wood or paper-faced gypsum sheathing. The company I worked for back in the 1980’s was a large Plastering construction company, a union shop.
That company was versatile, they specialized in everything. Regarding different stucco systems as in large commercial buildings such as Kaiser’s hospitals who’s architects or engineers specked out the Dry-Vit installation system.
This was my introduction to the foam board system, which is commonly referred to today as Efis and by many other names.
The traditional method first brought from the UK was to attach (Panzer fiberglass mesh). Because the lower sections of any and all buildings are prone to damage in high-traffic areas, this heavy fiberglass mesh netting was so tough it was named after the German tank, the Panzer tank.
Or often, more modern ways with leading stucco manufacturers would be included.
The STO Stucco System metal lath (“stucco netting”) is attached to a layer of expanded polystyrene foam board indented with grooves or what are known as keys. As added support for the stucco, the wire and a layer of stucco raging form a quarter-inch to a half-inch.
Almost all stucco systems require the use of two layers of grade “D” building paper attached to the wood sheathing.
Then, apply stucco in a one or two-coat system.
Today, the choice of stucco is endless, from fiber-reinforced base coat to one texture finish coat.
Or a Layer of Poly-Bond adhesive cement, ranging from an eighth to a quarter of an inch, by La Habra. Poly -bond is also used for attaching styrofoam to cementitious base coats.
For example, attaching often heavily coated Styrofoam molds around windows and doors or at the tops of buildings that will be exposed to high temperatures of heat in the summer or in winter, heavy freezing rains or snow and wind requires a powerful adhesive, otherwise severe weather can occur. It may loosen the foam, resulting in falling on someone.
Yes, I have heard of foam not properly hung and falling during such storms.
Dry-fit EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finishing Systems (EIFS), sometimes referred to as synthetic stucco, is a type of cladding that provides wall exteriors with an insulated finished surface. It is designed to last for a building’s typical design life.
Naturally, the actual longevity of any specific building will depend mainly on the building maintenance program. The words mentioned above are the tip of the iceberg for such systems; thus, research what you desire.
Lastly, keep in mind that what we are doing in this video is for a retired architect who has extensive knowledge in too many fields to mention here.
Folks, for immediate bids, send pictures to me or Jason.
https://www.StuccoPlastering.com/ Kirk’s website.
https://www.GiordanoPlastering.com/ Jason’s Website.
A fun fact for me is that our family and I have unconsciously created and contributed the most comprehensive encyclopedia of Stucco and Plastering videos ever produced online globally for your inspiration, entertainment, and education.
We show our work because we are honest, confident, and transparent. We have nothing to hide; we know what we are doing. If I had to say where we were schooled, it’s closest to, say, the University of Morals, which means if it’s not done right, you go back for free and do it again, but this time correctly.
Thus, all can depend on us for sound advice and workmanship.
Kirk Giotdano Plastering Inc.
