Synthetic stucco is an exterior insulation finish system (EIFS) that can consist of multiple layers of synthetic and foam insulation. It can be applied more quickly and easily than traditional stucco and can cater to a wide range of functions and designs. Installation can be on-site or prefabricated into panels. Moisture retention is a concern, but a drained EIFS can help solve this problem.
Unlike traditional stucco, which is non-insulating and typically composed of Portland cement, sand, and water, synthetic stucco isn’t stucco at all. Synthetic stucco generally refers to a type of exterior insulation finish system (EIFS), an insulating wall covering that can consist of more than one layer of synthetic and foam insulation. It is often used as a facade on the exterior walls of a building in lieu of cementitious stucco because it can be applied more quickly and easily. One example is known as single-coat stucco, a synthetic stucco applied as a coat or layer, where traditional stucco is usually applied in three coats. This can cater for a wide range of functions and designs for both structural and decorative needs.
Installation of this EIFS can be an on-site remodel supervised by plaster professionals, or the synthetic stucco can be prefabricated into panels and then shipped to the installation site. With the use of adhesives, the filler is then applied onto what is known as a backing. Common substrates can include new or existing concrete, cinder block, brick, plywood, and other common building materials. It can also be applied to paper or wire mesh over a wooden frame or other material for use on various indoor and outdoor projects.
A barrier EIFS, probably the most common and basic EIFS, is made up of three levels. The “foam” layer, usually foam plastic insulation in the form of 2ft x 4ft (0.6m x 1.2m) sheets, is first applied using an adhesive. The base coat is then applied to the insulating layer, a reinforced layer usually made up of a glass fiber mesh embedded in the adhesive. The finish, or finish, can then be applied, with a trowel or spray gun, to create a range of stucco-like textures and colors. In addition to synthetic stucco, EIFS finish can also be made to resemble granite or brick textures.
Moisture retention is a possible concern when installing synthetic stucco or any type of EIFS, especially for wood structures where water runoff can become trapped between the existing wood and synthetic layers. A drained EIFS was created to help solve this problem. Before installing an EIFS such as synthetic stucco, a water resistant barrier (WRB) or breathable membrane can be installed over any wood substrate. In addition, a drainage cavity is usually created to allow water to disperse and ensure that wooden structures suffer little or no damage. This type of EIFS is often required by building codes for structures that contain wood substrates.
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