OUR PROCCESS
WHAT IS EIFS?
EIFS are an energy-effecient exterior wall cladding system. Architects and homeowners prefer EIFS for it's outstanding thermal performance, impact resistance and moisture control. Easy application and endless customization makes this siding very desired.
Step 1: Water Resistant Barrier
The 'WRB' or 'Water Resistant Barrier' is the main waterproofing layer. It is a thin membrane generally 5-15mm thick, and reccomended for all new homes under construction.
This layer is very important because it rejects any liquids or moisture that has infliltrated the cladding. This layer not only protects the base of the structure from the moisture, but allows the liquid to dry on the outside of this layer.
This layer is applied directly onto the system with rollers or trowels. It is important that this layer has no holes as it will affect the integrity of the layer.
EPS stands for Expanded Polystyrene. These are foam type boards, and are used as the main insulation for the system, and can range in thickness from 1.5" - 6.0".
The greater the thickness, the more R-Value the system will have. These boards are designed with canals on the back to drain any water that may get in the system.
The R-Value of a wall measures the thermal resistance and insulating effectiveness a wall posseses. The EPS provides a great increase to the R-Value of a wall.
Step 2: Expanded
Polysterene Foam
Step 3: Mesh &
Basecoat
Mesh and Basecoat are technically two different stations, but are often applied together because the mesh must be embedded into the base coat for full durability.
The mesh is a fiber-glass type mesh similar to dry-wall mesh. The purpose of this mesh is to provide a strong base for the stucco that will later be applied over it.
The Basecoat is made of portland cement and solidifies the mesh in place when applied together. Once completely dried, the surface is sanded to eliminate any high-spots or cement clumps.
The main purpose of the Skimcoat is to cover any imperfections from previous steps, like exposed mesh. The cement used for the Skimcoat is the same cement used for the Basecoat application.
This step also creates a smoother surface for the primer and finish coat. In addition, it will provide more durability to the previously applied Basecoat.
Once the Skimcoat is completely dried, it is sanded and dusted in preperation for the final steps of the proccess.
Step 4: Skim Coat
Step 5: Primer
The primer coat is a layer of paint that is applied prior to the finish coat. This stage is recommended because it provides a smoother surface for some finishes to be applied.
Additionally, the primer enhances the overall color of select finish coats. This stage is applied with traditional paint rollers directly onto the sanded Skimcoat.
The finish coat is the final step in the EIFS proccess. This layer is a portland cement stucco finishing plaster.
It's main purpose is to provide the exterior water resistant barrier while adding a decorative finish to the system.
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Depending on the texture of the finish, this step can be applied in various ways, most commonly with a trowel.
Step 6: Finish Coat
