Considerations for the Use of Exterior Insulation & Finish Systems (EIFS) on U.S. Army Facilities

Exterior insulation and finish systems EIFS are exterior wall claddings consisting of insulation and wet-applied finishes. Finishes are composed of cementitious andor synthetic materials. EIFS function as a building skin, protecting the building structure from moisture and thermal changes. These systems are barrier type claddings. By design, barrier walls must shed water and prevent moisture from penetrating into the building itself. Hence, all EIFS must perform as waterproofing systems. Moisture protection is attained by providing an integrated system of EIFS layers in which each component serves specific and unique functions. Numerous U.S. Army and Air Force buildings clad with EIFS have recently experienced maintenance problems, localized deterioration, and outright failure. In cases of major failures, remedial work may cost more than 1 million. This report provides technical information and guidance for specifying, reviewing, andor inspecting EIFS claddings. It also contains a brief history of EIFS, describes EIFS components and different types of EIFS claddings, lists considerations for EIPS selection, and details typical EIFS failure modes. Figures show successful and unsuccessful EIFS condition on military and private sector buildings.