The basic problem with EIFS type P.B.(synthetic stucco) is that the system
is a single barrier. This means that the system is designed to keep water out of the wall
cavity.
According to the National Home Builders Association and numerous other
EIFS experts, water rarely enters the wall through the EIFS lamina itself (please review the public interest paper
published by the National Home Builders Association).
DON'T LET THIS HAPPEN TO YOUR HOME!
The most common areas where water enters the wall cavity and their
solutions are
listed below.
WINDOWS
In the course of many investigations of EIFS homes in the Mid-South,
Stucco Retro™ West TN, Inc., has found that the major amount of water intrusion into
EIFS homes comes through the windows - not around them.
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| These homes were not repaired before these photos were taken. |
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| This home was retrofitted in July of 1999. EIFS manufacturer's details were
installed and the windows were filet caulked. The window jambs and sills were also
repainted and caulked. Note the mold growth in the left corner. |
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| This is the same home but a different window. The same problem has re-occurred
due to the window leaking. The EIFS is performing as expected and is not
causing the above problems. |
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| This home was retrofitted in August of 1999 and again the problems with the
windows were not addressed. However, the EIFS was brought to standard. The windows were
caulked and painted at that time. |
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| The windows are rotting away and will soon lead to damage to the home's EIFS
and framing. |
THE CURE
Mr. Pitmon had the partial cure before there was a problem. |
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The Flash Pan adopts the idea of a drain tube and adds the
installation of a rubberized drain pan to protect the home's framing.
Ventilation to the area prevents the growth of mold and mildew. The window
is also treated with a borate solution. Link to www.PRGinc.com
to prevent further wood decay.
These two homes have the Flash Pan installed. During a recent inspection
of both properties no further damage was noted to the windows.
WHAT IS A FLASH PAN?
Simply put, a Flash Pan is a rubber membrane that is pumped into the
window cavity and allowed to drain under its own accord, creating a drain plane that will
allow any water that enters the wall cavity to be drained away. The Flash Pan also
allows ventilation to the cavity prolonging the life of the window.
Note: Some windows may not physically allow the
installation of the Flash Pan. These windows must also be rendered watertight. If Flash
Pans cannot be installed, have the window guides relieved, the window sealed and
repainted. Stucco Retro™ has specifications and details on how to cure most
leaky windows.
THE EIFS IS BELOW GRADE
This can cause wicking of ground water and hide any termite activity that
may be taking place.
THE CURE
Raise the EIFS to at least 8" above grade
and properly seal. |
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THE EIFS HAS CONCRETE OR PAVING MATERIAL TIGHT AGAINST
IT.
THE CURE
Remove EIFS and install proper sealant joint. |
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THERE IS A LACK OF DIVERTER FLASHING.
THE CURE
Properly install diverter flashing behind the existing step
flashing. |
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THERE ARE FAILED, IMPROPER OR NO SEALANT JOINTS.
THE CURE
Install new or retrofitted joints as needed. |
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