EIFS & STUCCO SYSTEMS
This property loss investigation focused on bulk water intrusion into this aging hotel property. Constructed using a barrier EIFS system, water had found it’s way behind the surface and had debonded the foam from the substrate. A large section of the upper wall, 20 stories above the hotel’s garden walk way had fallen to the ground, prompting the investigation. Through the investigation of numerous EIFS claims we have discovered that Barrier systems are extremely susceptible to this type of water intrusion damage.
Stucco: A cement based coating applied over varying substrates. Traditional stucco includes the application of multiple coats and the use of a reinforcing mesh. Waterproofing is achieved through an exterior painted coating. The use of this system is common in southern climates.
EIFS: Similar in appearance to stucco, using a multiple coat, polymer-based surface with fiberglass reinforcing mesh placed over insulating foam. These systems can be either barrier systems, which have no provision for eliminating water penetrating the surface or a drainage plane system that provides a pathway for water evacuation behind the surface of the insulation.
Investigations of EIFS and Stucco wall systems include the evaluation of water intrusion, debonding of the polystyrene foam material, crazing of the finished surface, construction and installation defects, material defects and maintenance related damage to surfaces.
Representative Investigations
The Sheraton Hotel – Columbus, OH
Mutiny Park – Coral Gables, FL
Hampton Inn – Sunrise, FL
Time Equities – Toledo, OH
Lone Star Savings Bank – San Antonio, TX
Doubletree Hotel – Kansas City KS
Doubletree Hotel, Austin, TX
Neff Street Partners – Pittsburgh, PA
Kravis Performing Arts Center – Palm Beach, FL