Energy Efficiency

One of the biggest advantages of an EIFS is its exceptional ability to conserve energy and keep monthly bills down. Also known as synthetic stucco, an EIFS provides a full layer of exterior wall insulation across the building to eliminate thermal bridges and minimize energy losses. By wrapping the building in this protective layer, exterior insulation significantly reduces the need for excessive heating in winter and AC usage in summer.

Beyond the immediate cost savings for building owners, an EIFS also supports long-term energy goals, making it the preferred choice for many contractors who work in sustainable design. Its thermal performance makes it easier to comply with energy codes and stay aligned with the goals of an eco-friendly project.

Weather Resistance

An Exterior Insulation and Finishing System also creates a physical barrier to protect buildings from the elements, such as water infiltration, harsh winds and even damage caused by the sun’s rays. In particular, one of the best features of an EIFS is its water-resistant properties. As a multi-layered exterior wall insulation system, synthetic stucco creates a moisture barrier to prevent water from entering the building’s inner walls.

Additionally, its lightweight and flexible design allows it to distribute pressure caused by strong winds more effectively, reducing structural stress on the building itself during harsh weather conditions. And to shield the structure’s surface from harmful UV rays that can fade or degrade its exterior appearance over time, an EIFS often incorporates sun-resistant coatings into its exterior insulation system.

Design Flexibility

Featuring virtually limitless possibilities in textures, colors and finishes to meet the most aesthetically demanding requirements, an EIFS is an ideal choice for many modern building designs. Exterior Insulation and Finishing Systems are highly adaptable to a wide range of architectural styles because these solutions can mimic raw materials such as brick, stucco, stone and metal. Plus, the lightweight nature allows contractors to more easily produce bold designs without the additional weight of materials like traditional stucco.

Sustainability

For construction projects engaging in sustainable design, an EIFS is an excellent option to integrate exterior insulation into your build. Beyond the massive cost savings these energy-efficient systems provide for buildings, they also help to lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with the building’s daily operations.

Furthermore, many Exterior Insulation and Finishing Systems are also built with eco-friendly materials designed to minimize environmental impact. These exterior solutions are most commonly made with expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation, which can be recycled at the end of life.

Durability

Specifically designed to withstand harsh weather conditions as well as everyday wear and tear, an EIFS features unparalleled protection for the buildings it covers. Its flexible yet highly durable composition allows this exterior wall insulation to absorb impact damage and act as a shield against structural stress.

Plus, an EIFS keeps the structure’s exterior in top condition year after year by acting as a physical barrier to prevent harsh winds, water damage and UV radiation from penetrating the building itself. This built-in resilience translates to lower yearly maintenance costs for structures with synthetic stucco simply because buildings need fewer repairs when they are well-protected from the elements.

1. Energy Efficiency

If energy efficiency is necessary for your building, an Exterior Insulation and Finishing System is the clear winner. Unlike traditional stucco offering minimal exterior wall insulation, an EIFS effectively minimizes thermal bridges, improves indoor comfort and reduces the need for excessive energy usage.

2. Ease of Installation

Generally speaking, an EIFS weighs less than traditional stucco and is much easier to maneuver and install. Its lightweight properties make it a far more efficient material to transport and less labor-intensive to handle than stucco.

3. Moisture Prevention

An EIFS is highly efficient in preventing mold and mildew growth because it stops water infiltration before it can start. On the other hand, traditional stucco is not typically considered to be a type of exterior insulation. As such, it can absorb moisture over time and weaken the building’s structural integrity if the water damage is not caught quickly enough.

4. Aesthetic Flexibility

From sleek and modern to classic and traditional, synthetic stucco gives builders the ability to create visually stunning designs that can align with any aesthetic style. While traditional stucco does offer some variety in texture and color, it is a far less versatile material than an EIFS in stretching the limits of modern architectural design.

• Cement

• Plaster

• Lime

• Mortar

• Metal trim bead

• Air and vapor barriers

• Starter trac

• Window/door drip edges

• Stucco channel reveals

• Soffit vents

• Control joints

• Beads

• Grout

• Brick templates

• EIFS casing beads

• Splicers

• Wainscot sills

No matter the size or scope of your next commercial, residential or industrial job, GMS is here to help you access the highest-quality acoustical ceiling solutions needed to execute your project to perfection. Check out our yard finder to connect with the nearest GMS location in your area and take advantage of our unmatched industry expertise and end-to-end customer service today.