EIFS

Senergy, a brand of Sika, offers a wide range of Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) for the building enclosure. EIFS are exterior wall systems that combine cutting-edge technology with superior design flexibility to deliver energy efficiency, moisture control, and durability, making them the ideal choice for modern construction. 

Senergy EIFS offer an extensive variety of finishes and textures to achieve your desired aesthetic. Whether you’re working on a commercial or residential project, these systems provide the performance and versatility needed to bring your vision to life.

What is EIFS?

EIFS, or Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, are a lightweight, non-load-bearing cladding system that includes continuous insulation, air and water-resistive barrier, and a decorative, protective finish. EIFS is a seamless exterior solution ideal for both new construction and retrofit projects.

Each layer in the EIFS system plays a critical role in delivering thermal performance, design flexibility, and building code compliance. Understanding the critical layers of an EIFS system is essential for successful specification and installation as well as achieving performance, aesthetics, and sustainability goals. 

What are the components of EIFS?

EIFS typically consist of the following critical layers. EIFS manufacturers design and test components to seamlessly integrate and work together to deliver effective energy efficiency, durability, moisture management, fire performance and aesthetic versatility.

Weather Barrier - the weather barrier helps protect the wall assembly from air infiltration and moisture intrusion. This critical layer improves energy efficiency and reduces the risk of mold and mildew within the wall cavity. Check out Senergy's fluid-applied air and water-resistive barriers.

Continuous Insulation (CI) - Expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam insulation board provides continuous insulation across the exterior wall surface. By eliminating thermal bridging, this layer enhances energy efficiency and helps meet or exceed energy code requirements. 

Reinforcing Mesh with Base Coat - A layer of alkali-resistant fiberglass mesh is embeded in base coat and applied over the insulation board. This layer adds impact resistance, flexibility, and crack resistance, forming a durable foundation for the finish coat.

Finish Coat - The exterior finish layer offers design versatility with a range of textures and colors. It provides weather resistance, UV protection, and aesthetic appeal, completing the system with a long-lasting, decorative surface. A wide range of looks can be acheived.

What are the benefits of EIFS?

EIFS systems deliver more than energy savings, EIFS offer superior wall protection, enhanced aesthetics, and long-term value. Whether you're designing commercial, institutional, or residential projects, EIFS provide solutions tailored for performance and sustainability.

Energy Efficiency: Integrated continuous insulation minimizes thermal bridging and enhances overall thermal performance of a building.

Moisture Management: Air and water-resistive barriers protect against the elements while allowing vapor permeability. EIFS with drainage incorporate a built-in drainage plane enabling moisture to escape.

Durable and Impact-Resistant: Reinforced base coat with mesh increases system longevity and performance.

Design Flexibility: Diverse selection of finishes, colors, and textures for customized architectural expression. Check out Senergy's EIFS colors and textures.

Code Compliance: Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) are included in both the 2024 International Building Code (IBC), Section 1407 and 2024 International Residential Code (IRC), Section 703.9.

Fire Performance: Senergy offers EIFS systems that have been tested and meet NFPA 285 Standard Fire Test Method. Explore Senergy's NFPA 285 compliant wall systems.