Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) are
multi-layered exterior wall systems typically called "Stucco" that are used on
both commercial buildings and homes. They provide superior energy efficiency and
offer much greater design flexibility than other cladding products.Developed in
Europe in the 1950s, EIFS were introduced in the U.S. almost 40 years ago. For
Toronto area it's the best option to cover over old brick with stucco coating or
EIFS System. They were first used on commercial buildings, and later, on homes.
Today, EIFS account for nearly 40% of the Canada commercial exterior wall
market. EIFS typically consist of the following components.
Whats Stucco System?
Typical Stucco Components
- Tar paper or another type of weather-resistive material
- Galvanized metal lath
- Scratch coat of Portland cement and sand
- Brown coat of cement and sand
- Finish coat
Installation
- Stucco work is done by specialty contractors called lath and plastering contractors. Lathing and plastering are highly specialized trades. Stucco work should only be done by those with proper training and understanding of plaster systems.
Stucco Toronto
Stucco can be customized in many different textures to meet the homeowners'
needs.Perhaps no other exterior siding
can be customized like stucco. Homeowners have the option of choosing stucco
that is lightly textured or has a coarse texture for more interest. Designed to
be durable, stucco is a highly affordable siding option that requires little
maintenance through the years. Made of cement, sand, lime and water, stucco is
naturally resistant to fire. This siding option also has insulation qualities
that will help lower your heating and cooling costs. Some homeowners love it
because it can be installed by a homeowner, presenting a substantial savings on
installation costs. Be forewarned, however, that installation can be tricky. If
you don't like the final look, you will have to remove all the stucco and start
over again with a clean slate.
Disadvantages - The biggest problem with stucco is that it is not well suited for extreme exposure to water. An excellent choice for southern climates, it holds up well in the warmer temperatures. Stucco can still be used in northern climates, provided certain protective measures are set in place for the moisture issue. Some homeowners confuse stucco with cement. However, it is not cement and cannot be treated as such. When grading around your home, the dirt must stay below the stucco siding.
Cost – Stucco is not the most affordable
siding option, however it is a more affordable option than brick or natural
stone. At six to nine dollars a square foot, it is an excellent choice for homes
in warm, dry climates. With the proper installation methods, it is also a fine
choice even for homes in northern climates.
Stucco Toronto
Installation
– Stucco cannot be applied directly to wood. Talk to the contractor to find out
what kind of framework will be used for the stucco to adhere to. Industry
standard is to use a framework of tar paper and wire. To prevent wall rotthe
installer must leave an air gap of at least 3/8th of an inch between the stucco
framework and the sheathing. Find out how your contractor will handle creating
this important drying space between the wall and the siding. Flashing must be
used around windows to avoid problems with water seeping in through these
vulnerable areas. At least two layers of building wrap should be used under the
stucco to protect wood that is not pressure
treated.
Maintenance – Stucco can
crack, and when that happens it’s important to make repairs promptly. The good
news is that repairs are relatively simple. Hairline cracks can usually be
painted. Thicker cracks can be taken care of with a little premixed stucco patch
mix. Rapidly spreading cracks and those that reappear after being patched can
indicate a larger problem and should be surveyed by a
professional.
In an earlier era of building construction, stone
or brick materials often provided the primary support for exterior walls. In
modern construction, however, homes are framed in wood while brick or stone
facades are attached to the exterior for decorative and weather protection
purposes rather than for structural support.Stucco Toronto
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