It is not uncommon for homeowners in the United States who believe they live in traditional stucco-exterior houses to go to make repairs and discover that, low and behold; their homes are covered with exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS). EIFS, as a general rule, are considered cheaply manufactured and not worthwhile in the long run. This does not, however, mean they won’t function at all; this is why so many people go for years without realizing their stucco walls are not truly stucco.
If you’ve recently discovered your residence was finished with EIFS, or if you are thinking about buying a house that has EIFS and you know you will want to replace the siding right away, this guide is for you. As you read on, you will learn more about both EIFS and the best way to replace one of these systems. Best of luck as you begin your exterior remodeling project!
How did EIFS come to be?
EIFS first came into vogue in Europe after World War II. Thousands upon thousands of buildings required repairs during that era, and construction crews realized EIFS was a cost-effective, visually appealing way to restore exteriors. These systems became popular in the United States in the 1980s and were used not only in homes, particularly in sub-divisions, but also on office buildings around the country.
What are EIFS made of?
Original EIFS did not breathe whatsoever. Therefore, if any moisture at all got trapped in them, it caused problems over time. In fact, mold, mildew, and cracks that have formed over many years are what many of today’s homeowners find themselves dealing with when they discover their homes are covered with EIFS. Modern EIFS consist of six layers, and certain advancements have been made in regard to their overall water resistance. Still, though, they are not considered a high-end option; many relocation companies won’t purchase homes that have EIFS, and their presence tends to lower market value.
What is the best way to replace EIFS?
If you are ready to replace one of these systems, fiber cement siding manufactured by the James Hardie company is the best choice for the job. One of the major perks of using fiber cement siding boards is that their trim can easily be installed over built-out sections of EIFS-covered exteriors. This gives a finished look and doesn’t appear to have been pieced together in an amateur fashion, which is a concern for many homeowners who find themselves dealing with EIFS. Furthermore, although fiber cement siding is fairly moisture resistant naturally, it is easy to caulk it to add an extra barrier of protection against potential water damage.
At Hatch Homes, we have dealt with James Hardie fiber cement siding for quite some time. We believe this type of siding is a great option for all types of homes. It is also significantly more affordable than you might expect! If you think this is the right route for you when it comes to replacing your current EIFS exterior, we urge you to connect with us at your earliest convenience. Contact our office to get answers to any questions you may have and to set-up a preliminary consultation.