Maintaining and repairing EIFS exteriors

EIFS, or exterior insulation and finish system, exteriors are becoming more and more popular for commercial buildings. They’re energy efficient, can be finished with a variety of textures and colors, and they’re easy to clean.

The system includes insulated boards with a synthetic coating on top. In most installations, the coating is acrylic, which means it holds up well over time. It resists fading and doesn’t need to be repainted like stucco and some other exteriors.

But while it’s durable, it still requires routine maintenance and repairs to keep it in good condition. Summer heat and winter cold can cause problems for EIFS just as they can for any building exterior, so fall and spring are good times to inspect your exterior.

Potential problems

An EIFS exterior can crack or be damaged by direct impact from hail or other hard objects. When cracks occur, moisture can penetrate the surface and cause further damage. Prolonged exposure to ice or snow can result in surface wetting which then leads to staining. In some cases, especially when the interior of a building has high humidity, condensation can occur that also presents concerns for moisture penetration.

Routine maintenance

A regular inspection of your exterior surface can help identify and monitor any of the problems listed above. Cracking most commonly occurs at the corners or around windows, so pay careful attention to those areas. Watch carefully for any signs of mold or mildew that could point to moisture penetration that you might not see.

Making repairs

When it comes to EIFS repairs, it’s best to consult with a professional who has experience with EIFS exteriors. An incorrect repair can cause further damage or allow additional water penetration, so you want to be sure it’s done right.

It’s important to first identify the root cause of the problem and then make the proper repairs. In some cases, it’s as easy as removing and reapplying the top coating. Water infiltration may be solved by addressing an issue with flashing or drainage systems in addition to repairing the surface.

JK Industries, Inc., has extensive experience repairing EIFS exteriors. Let us know how we can help.