Expert EIFS Advisory
After 40 years of EIFS experience, full retirement was not an option. Golf is not my forte and shooting rapids in a canoe has its limitations for an old curmudgeon. The "Expert EIFS Advisory" services available through this web site is an information exchange via blogs and, when asked politely, opinions. Don't misunderstand, I like to help, especially students with their projects. Sometimes though, "Harrumph" can be an opinion.
Expert EIFS Advisory Services
Do not request site visits unless the location is in a sunny warm climate during the winter months and first class airfare and hotel services are offered.
Do send photographs such as the one on the right. A contractor asked if this was a suitable substrate for a fluid-applied water resistive air barrier? When finished laughing, recommended a professional engineer determine if it was suitable for holding up the roof. To be clear - NO ! this is not a suitable substrate for much of anything let alone fluid applied barriers.
Also, do send architectural details. The integration of different cladding systems and the connections of air, moisture, thermal and water resistant barriers is not for the faint of heart. "As per manufacturer's details" is not helpful. Manufacturer's project specific "Shop drawings" are extremely rare. Get it right before construction starts. Allow the trade craftsmen to be informed of their role and expected sequence of installation.
Comprehensive EIFS Insights
Navigate the complexities of EIFS with confidence. From construction details to insightful blogs and blood-curdling tales, my EIFS advisory services cover every aspect. Benefit from the industry's only curmudgeon, providing unique perspectives and unparalleled expertise. Look through the blogs.
Build a mock up and test it
Simple rule of building envelope excellence for every project — build a mock up and test it to the severest anticipated conditions. Build in all the cladding assembly elements including connections to roof and foundation. In mockup tests, I have witnessed failure in everything from windows, sealants, vents and incompatible chemistries (e.g. sealants and self adhered membranes). I have seen leaks from screw holes through a membrane deliver water to a totally different part of the wall. I have seen unreinforced window frames twist and break seals because the glass area was too large for the frame to support under pressure.
The costs for a mockup construction, testing and re-testing after failure are minimal compared to the costs of failure on the finished building.