EIFS Stucco with Drainage
EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System) has evolved over the years, offering innovative solutions for modern construction. One such advancement is EIFS stucco with drainage, a system designed to prevent water damage and enhance the building’s longevity. This article delves into the details of this system, applied over an OSB substrate with a liquid moisture barrier, and compares it with other versions of EIFS.
EIFS Stucco with Drainage: An Overview
Liquid Moisture Barrier
The OSB substrate is coated with a liquid moisture barrier, including all window and door rough openings. This barrier ensures that no moisture penetrates the underlying structure, providing an extra layer of protection.
Starter Track
Positioned 4 inches above grade, the starter track is a crucial component. The first row of foam rests on this track, which features a drip edge to prevent water from cascading back to the wall. The weep holes in the starter track allow any trapped moisture to escape, making it an essential part of the drainage system.
Application Process
- Foam Application: The foam is applied with a basecoat, using a notch trowel to create natural vertical drainage channels.
- Basecoat with Mesh: A basecoat with embedded mesh is applied over the foam.
- Finish Coat: The final finish coat is applied over the basecoat, completing the system.
Comparing EIFS Systems
The Barrier System (Original Version)
The original EIFS, known as the Barrier System, lacked drainage features, leading to potential moisture problems.
EIFS with Drainage (Modern Version)
The modern EIFS with drainage, as described above, offers superior moisture management, protecting the structure from potential water damage.
Inferior Version: EIFS Drainage with Cloth Barrier and Mechanical Fasteners
This version, although providing drainage, lacks the efficiency and effectiveness of the modern system, making it a less desirable option.
Conclusion
EIFS stucco with drainage over an OSB substrate with a liquid moisture barrier represents a significant advancement in exterior insulation systems. Its well-designed components, including the starter track and moisture barrier, offer robust protection against moisture. By understanding the differences between this system and other versions, builders and homeowners can make informed decisions that best suit their needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question | Answer |
What is the main advantage of EIFS stucco with drainage? | It provides superior moisture management, preventing potential water damage. |
How does the starter track function? | It has a drip edge and weep holes to prevent water from cascading back to the wall and allow trapped moisture to escape. |
How does the modern EIFS with drainage compare to the original Barrier System? | The modern system offers drainage features, unlike the original version, enhancing protection against moisture. |
Industry Experience
With 30 years of experience in EIFS stucco repairs, I’ve witnessed the evolution of EIFS systems. The modern EIFS stucco with drainage represents a significant advancement, offering robust protection against moisture. Its well-designed components and application process make it a preferred choice for modern construction.
Learn More
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Projects Installing a Drainage System
We installed a drainage system on this store front when they had a major moisture problem.
We removed the existing tile after they had moisture intrusion problems and replaced it with an EIFS stucco system with drainage.
A car hit the corner of this building in Northville Michigan, and as usual I made sure to use my drainage system for the repair. You can see in this photo how the ribs of cement adhesive create natural vertical drainage channels.
