Charlotte, NC and surrounding areas
The Problem
If your home is clad in EIFS or “synthetic” stucco, you may have a hidden but very serious problem with moisture intrusion that is almost always accompanied by structural deterioration. The moisture and rot hidden in the exterior walls hidden by the EIFS provide an ideal environment for insects, such as ants and termites, as well as mold and mildew, which can cause illness and aggravate allergies. Given enough time, this hidden damage can undermine the structural stability of your home.
There are three main problems with EIFS, an acronym for Exterior Insulated Finishing System and often referred to as "synthetic" stucco. The first problem stems from improper flashing at the roof line of the home. A key piece of flashing, the "kickout" flashing, is often missing or installed improperly. The second flaw with EIFS is the lack of a termite barrier; the EIFS is often covering the foundation and extends below grade. The foam used in EIFS materials are cellulose based as is wood thereby providing a bridge between the ground and the wooden structure of the home. Lastly, EIFS is not a drainable system. This means that when moisture enters the system it has no escape and is wicked up by the sheathing and structural members of the home.
The pictures below are of a home right here in South Carolina. As you can see, on the outside the home looks great, but hidden behind the EIFS is serious structural deterioration. If your home is clad in EIFS, you should check for some of the signs that indicate there may be a problem. Does your home suffer from one or more of the following symptoms?
- Mold or Mildew on the interior or exterior of the home
- Rotten or swollen wood around doors and windows
- Warping of hardwood floors
- Blistering or peeling paint
- Cracked or bulging stucco
Photos
The Solution: Re-clad
The only solution to the problems associated with EIFS is the complete removal of the EIFS and the installation of a quality drainable hardcoat stucco system by Allen’s Plastering, Inc.. Some contactors offer their solution to these problems which usually involves some degree of caulking, retrofitting of proper flashing details, or just repairing the “rotten spots”. These are TEMPORARY fixes and are not recognized as permanent solutions to the problem by insurance companies, termite companies, and most importantly potential homebuyers. There are even companies who specialize in offering naďve homeowners “moisture warranties” for a substantial premiums and contingent upon the required inspections and repairs being completed BEFORE the policy is implemented and BEFORE the policy can be RENEWED. Too many homeowners waste money trying to find an easier solution, but ultimately have a re-clad performed anyway.
We at Allen’s Plastering have just one goal in mind when we perform a re-clad; to make your home look as if it were just constructed when we leave. Your complete and total satisfaction is our number one priority. We strive to complete your re-clad quickly and with as little inconvenience as possible.
Allen’s Plastering assigns one crew to each home where they stay six days a week until the job is finished. Other re-clad companies rotate one crew among numerous jobs resulting in some homeowners’ not seeing work being done for days at a time.
Our workmanship is unsurpassed and guaranteed; as are the products we apply. Additionally, we enjoy an extensive list of references as well as the best reputation in the business.
There may be legal recourse available for homeowners with EIFS homes. Numerous clients of Allen’s Plastering have worked with legal professionals to gain recovery for their problems. We can help put you in touch with inspectors and lawyers who specialize in construction defect cases.
Water damage to a home increases exponentially with time. Don’t wait until it is too late. Please call me at your earliest convenience so that we may discuss the condition of your home.