EIFS Failures

[bramatlin]

I am working on a list of EIFS system failures..
I have a couple but not very many.
- Precast failures
- Moisture failures
- Joint problems

any help in developing this list would be great.

 

[CWIC]

1.) Installation by unqualified or inexperienced installers.
2.) Use of noncompliant materials used within the system. (e.g.: Using a non-approved foam board or mesh.)
3.) Manufacturers like to substitute liquid or hard components without notifying the organizations who approved their original system for use (i.e: ICBO ES) in their original test report data.
4.) Withholding identification components used in production.
5.) Not installing the system (by qualified applicators) per the manufacturers specifications.
6.) Adding, deleting or modifying a production process without testing and approval.
7.) Identifying their system or system components as being approved to the public.
8.) Improper identification of materials.

Just a few mentioned here. While many of my comments appear to be similar in nature, they are not. I can't divulge too much detail, but I have audited many of these manufacturers. The big guys and little guys, I don't trust any of them after getting a worm's-eye view of thier operations. Never left an audit without corrective action.
Actually had one tried to bribe me.

Hmmm.

 

[Rjeffery]

add to the list: Use of imcompatable materials ie foam board with petrolium (vs emulsified) solvent applied damp proofing.

 

[dik]

and another... failure due to lack of maintenance after a small vehicle impact.

 

[Ron]

more....
improper jointing and separation of substrates (a part of some manufacturer's instructions)
improper board attachment
unrealistic expectations on the part of the owner, such as "lasts forever" (it doesn't...depending on area, about 5 to 10 years for coating, then recoat), no maintenance (it does require maintenance)

 

[CWIC]

Just an update on this subject.

A poor homeowner around the corner from my office is building a new home on an existing lot. I have watched the progress basically from start to almost finished everyday when I drive by.

The entire Exterior Insulating Finish System had to be removed for several reasons which the owner divulged recently:
1.) Componenets were applied that were not inclusive to the approved system he purchased.
2.) None of the applicators were qualified for this system.
3.) Some areas had begun to separate from the structure which was discovered by his inspector and the local building dept. inspectors.

The contractor refused to make repairs and has pulled off the job which required finding a new qualified contractor.

He is suing the original contractor, the house that was nearing completion now looks like a tornado hit it as all the work the original contractor performed had to be stripped. The inspector is now present daily as are the reps. from the local building dept. It is costing him $ to redo the work, pay for continuous inspection for what should have been periodic inspection, delays to the other trades and the cost of a lawyer.

FYI.

 

[Lutfi]

Let me say that I hate EIFS.... I am not sold on it and it creates so many problems here in the hot humid south.

I acknowledge that the EIFS systems came along way and they have improved; I still do not like it. They contribute to the building moisture problems (water intrusion and also on water vapor movement).

Like all things. If they are properly designed, right materials used, vapor barrier used and is placed on the proper side of the wall, proper water plane is placed, properly channeling the water away from the building, skilled contractors applied and owner continued maintenance, they should function Okay.

For additional reading on building science and more information, read Joseph Lstiburek’s, Ph.D top 10 dumb things to do in the south at:

http://www.buildingscience.com/topten/south.htm

 

[jheidt2543]

Like any other building material, EIFS can be abused. However, when a proven system is installed by trained crews using the required materials and with proper flashing and joint treatment it is a good product. Here in the northern states it beats cement plaster in the outdoors for soffits and trim.

I've seen similar failures with brick, block, wood siding etc. Good products installed by untrained crews don't work no matter what the material is.