January 1999
Water infiltration into homes sided with traditional barrier nondrainable (barrier) exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS), also known as "synthetic stucco," can cause degradation of underlying materials. Non-drainable EIFS differ from most other sidings because they do not have a drainage cavity, they do not have a weather-resistive barrier (housewrap/tarpaper) behind them, and they have limited drying potential. Geographic location, age of home, quality of construction do not necessarily preclude you from this potential problem. Professional EIFS moisture inspection must become part of the homeowner’s maintenance program to properly evaluate, correct and monitor non-drainable EIFS; including repair of nondrainable EIFS and related components. This information sheet has been prepared to help educate homeowners about this potential problem so they can make informed decisions regarding the assessment, maintenance and repair of their EIFS clad house.
6 pages