|
| |
Q. What is EIFS?
A. ASTM C1397 defines an Exterior Insulation Finish System as follows:
exterior insulation and finish system, "EIFS" (pronounced eefs) a non
load bearing, exterior wall cladding system that consists of an insulation
board attached either adhesively, mechanically, or both to the substrate; an
integrally reinforced base coat; and a textured protective finish coat.
Q. What is stucco?
A. Portland Cement Plaster is sand, Portland cement, lime and water.
Sometimes there are acrylic additives and fibers added.
Q. Is sealant a component of an EIFS?
A. No. Sealant or caulk is a component of a wall assembly.
Q. Is EIFS water-resistant?
A. Yes, EIFS are resistant. Water does not penetrate the field of a
wall properly clad with EIFS. The water resistance of EIFS has been
thoroughly evaluated by testing prescribed by the Model Building Codes.
Q. If I have a report that says backer rod is not found
around the
openings of my home, do I need to have it installed?
A. No. There are other ways to install sealant properly without backer
rod.
Q. What is a kick out (diverter) flashing?
A. Kick out is colloquial term for flashing or a water diverter that
people think has just been invented or discovered. A kick out is just another
part of the flashing that should have always been at the roof/ wall
intersection of a building when the roof stops and the wall continues. They have
been used in building construction for many years.
Q. Is moisture damage unique to EIFS?
A. No. Moisture damage is not cladding specific. It can happen to any
structure when diverter flashings or sill flashings are omitted, code
approved windows are not used and sealants are omitted. It doesn't
matter what the geographic location is either.
Q. Are my windows rotting because I have EIFS?
A. No. The rot associated with window and window components are in no
way associated with EIFS. There are many reasons for windows and window
components to rot. The most common reason is lack of maintenance and
flashing. Even poorly constructed windows, if maintained, can last for
a while, but on the same token, a good window will rot if not properly
maintained.
Q. When windows rot, does that mean that my all of my
walls have
damage?
A. No. Windows may be the second largest source for water infiltration
into walls. Usually one or both sill/jamb intersections leak. In the case of
ganged windows, the mullions leak as well as the horizontal mutton. The
damage at windows is usually directly below the sill/jamb intersection or
below the muttons.
Q. Should I have flashing over and under my windows?
A. Yes. All windows should be properly flashed above and below.
Building Codes require flashing be installed.
Q. Do I need flashing at my deck?
A. Yes. Many times flashing at decks are omitted or the vertical leg is
too short. It is often times installed in such a manner as to create a
funnel into the wall. These errors lead to extensive damage to sheathing and
substrate.
Q. Why was my flashing left off?
A. Usually because someone didn't care enough to install or inspect to
insure that it was installed. The Building Code requires flashing be
installed.
Q. Can sealant be relied upon to keep moisture out?
A. Yes, but not alone. It has to be in conjunction with other wall
assembly components such as flashing. Sealant is used with all types of
claddings to seal the interfaces with other wall assembly components to help
keep
out water, air and dirt. Sealants are maintenance items and must be
inspected periodically for deterioration and/or damage.
|
|
