The Importance of Regular EIFS Inspections
What is EIFS?
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) are external wall cladding solutions. They incorporate exterior, continuous insulation with a cladding that allows for a variety of design and flexibility.
Its purpose is to provide the exterior walls with an insulated, water-resistant finished surface in an integrated composite material system. To ensure that the external walls remain dry and to prevent issues like wood rot, mold growth, pests, and other moisture damage.
There are two types of EIFS, defined by their materials and a drainage plain, essential for effective moisture management in EIFS clad structures. They are PB EIFS and PM EIFS, both of which are types of synthetic stucco.
Inspecting your Exterior Insulation Finish System
Much like other aspects of a building, the external cladding needs periodic inspections and repairs if needed. EIFS inspections are critical to ensure there is no water damage within the walls. Trapped moisture can cause severe structural damage and costly repairs.
So, the best way to prevent, or get ahead of any issues is to work with an experienced inspector. They can determine the status of your external cladding, including EIFS or stucco, and provide a detailed report that can serve to plan repairs.
So, if you are considering the purchase of a home or building, working with an inspector can prevent any surprise issues with the cladding. Even owners can benefit from periodic inspections.
Our EIFS Inspections
Inspection Methods
Visual Inspection
Cliff Kapson Consulting inspectors begin with a thorough visual evaluation of the property. Where they evaluate all surfaces to check for the existence of visual issues. Such as discoloration, cracks, mold growth, improper sealing, and other common issues with EIFS and stucco systems.
Most times, water intrusion problems are not apparent from a visual inspection of the exterior. Which is why we pair our visual inspection with other methods and tools to detect problems or potential problems.
Moisture Testing
In areas suspected of moisture intrusion, we take readings using a variety of meters. One of these meters is the Tramex Wet Wall Detector, crucial for assessing high moisture levels in EIFS clad buildings. Which uses electrical impedance technology to detect moisture. Because this type of meter is not always 100% accurate, the use of an electrical impedance scan should always be paired with an electrode or pin-type meter.
Pin-type meters use the principle of electrical resistance to determine the moisture levels and the condition of the substrate. This procedure requires the penetration of the sheathing to enable the meter’s probes to collect accurate readings.
Our inspectors repair the holes left by the probes and attempt to match the color of the wall after testing.
EIFS Inspection Frequency
All major EIFS manufactures, like Senergy, Dryvit, Parex, and Sto, recommend ‘regular’ inspections and maintenance. Cliff Kapson Consulting recommends annual EIFS inspections for most buildings to ensure the integrity of the synthetic stucco. But this varies depending on your geographical location.
For example, homes in the Midwest experience an extreme weather cycle throughout the year, which can affect the performance of EIFS systems. Rain and sleet in the fall. Snow, ice, and temperatures below 0° F in the winter. Rain in the spring. And sun and temperatures over 90° F in the summer.
Buildings in this climate type should receive more frequent EIFS inspections to ensure no issues are present.
If you are unsure of the inspection frequency of your home or commercial building, call us. We can discuss your needs and determine an inspection schedule to meet your needs.
Ensure Proper Testing
Be aware of inspectors who may try to convince you that a proper assessment of any EIFS can be done without invasive testing of some kind. If issues are suspected, readings must be taken to get a clear, accurate status of the insulation and external cladding, especially in high moisture environments.
Research your inspection options to ensure they have proper certification and experience.
Cliff Kapson Consulting holds many certifications pertaining to the inspection of buildings and homes. Some of our credentials include:
- Certified third party inspector for moisture analysis and building envelopes through E.D.I (Exterior Design Institute)
- Certified Third Party EIFS inspector through AWCI (Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry), certificate #108802
- Approved third-party inspector for completing the EIFS Training Program offered by Northwest Wall & Ceiling Bureau and the NWCB Inspection and Maintenance and Repair Seminar
- Completed an applicator training seminar and classes provided by EIFS manufacturers Dryvit Systems Inc. and Sto Corp
- And other applicable certifications related to EIFS and stucco inspections
Inspection Report
We take great pride in providing the most comprehensive inspection and report available anywhere for EIFS and stucco systems. Our clients receive all the information and support they need to pursue any and all options. Such as correction of application defects, recommendation of structural repairs, pursuit of legal action, and maintenance guidelines.
Our reports provide a detailed outline of all the information collected during the inspection. This includes notes, photographs, readings, and all supporting information.
We Offer Experienced Inspection Services
Cliff Kapson Consulting has over 20 years of industry experience. We specialize in the evaluation of both commercial and residential building envelopes or claddings. This includes stone, EIFS (Dryvit), Stucco, Brick, and Composite Board.
We perform nationwide inspections. Our services are available for clients anywhere in the United States!
Schedule your Commercial or Home Inspection Today!
When you are ready to schedule one of our EIFS inspections, please call 888-304-3437. There, a dedicated team member will be available. They can provide more details regarding our services and can answer your questions. You can also send us a message by filling out the form found on this page, and we will contact you as soon as possible.