Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) Inspection

EIFS, or synthetic stucco, offers insulation, waterproofing, and weather protection, making it appealing to homebuyers. However, it is thin, brittle, prone to surface cracks, and traps moisture, leading to hidden wood rot, mold growth, and extensive damage if undetected.

Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) Inspection

EIFS, though appealing for its insulation and waterproofing, is prone to cracks and trapped moisture, leading to hidden mold, wood rot, and serious damage.

What is EIFS?

EIFS or synthetic stucco is a waterproof material, has insulations and weather protection. This makes it a very attractive material for home buyers. However, there are many issues with synthetic stucco.

Thin and brittle
Prone to surface cracks
Once Water/Moisture is trapped inside, it cannot escape

The last issue is a major reason why EIFS can cause extensive damage to a home. Without the proper tools, you would not be able to detect moisture within your walls. This leads to wood rot, moisture damage, and mold growth

Should You Get An EIFS Inspection?

An EIFS inspection is intended to identify areas of high moisture content in the sheathing and framing. We will look for damages and test for levels of moisture in a home. We are unable to perform this inspection when the weather is raining since it is being tested for moisture. Getting a EIFS inspection will ensure you are able to identify moisture intrusion.

Why get a EIFS inspection?

You should get a EIFS inspection because:

To Check for Moisture Levels & Intrusion
To Check for Improper Installation and Sealing
To Avoid Time Consuming & Costly Repairs
Identify Areas of Improvements

Check for moisture levels & intrusion

Checking for moisture levels and intrusion will allow to take corrective actions before the damage becomes more extensive

Check for improper installation and sealing

Improper installation and sealing can lead to water being trapped within your property causing mold and wood rot.

Avoid time consuming & costly repairs

Knowing what issues your synthetic stucco property has will allow you to take action sooner. Avoid very costly repairs to your property.

Identify areas of improvements

The EIFS inspection will help identify areas of improvements for your property.

5 Tips for a successful EIFS Inspection

Inspect your EIFS on a regular basis
Know what an EIFS inspection is
Get an estimate for an EIFS inspection
Be prepared to pay for an EIFS inspection
Speak with a contractor about your specific needs

Inspect Your EIFS On A Regular Basis

EIFS can deteriorate quickly, so it’s important to inspect them regularly to ensure they’re in good condition. A good rule of thumb is to inspect your EIFS every 3-6 months, depending on the type of EIFS and its condition.

Know What An EIFS Inspection Is

An EIFS inspection is a form of home or business property inspections that checks for possible problems with the walls, roofing or insulation system. If there are any potential issues with your EIFS, they’ll need to be fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potential health hazards.

Get An Estimate For An EIFS Inspection

Getting an estimate from a qualified inspector will help you better understand the cost and scope of the work involved in conducting an EIFS inspection.

Speak With A Contractor About Your Specific Needs

No two EIFS inspections are exactly alike, so it’s important to speak with a qualified contractor about your specific needs and expectations before enlisting their services.

Be Prepared To Pay For An EIFS Inspection

While not always the case, most contractors will require payment in advance for an EIFS Inspection. This way, you can ensure that all necessary work is carried out and that any potential damages are fully accounted for before receiving your final bill.

Take a Look at a Sample Report

Get an idea of the format and items that would be listed under an EIFS Inspection.