EIFSFACTS.ORG

The Real Facts About EIFS

- Leaks in the Face of EIFS -

The general concensus has always been that the face of EIFS does not leak. However, the photos below tell a different story. We recently received these photos of a Virginia home with a Dryvit EIFS exterior. Readily visible are multiple water marks (check the high-resolution versions by clicking on the images). These marks are formed when water that is in the wall cavity is sucked back out during periods of negative pressure differentials. The red dots at the top of the water marks are rust specks surrounding the tiny holes in the surface of the EIFS. The rust results when the aggregate used in the EIFS coatings are contaminated with iron pyrite. There was a big problem with rust in the early 90's that affected a number of manufacturers, but reportedly the bulk of the problems were encountered by Dryvit. These photos may just be the tip of the iceburg. Many home-owners have water marks on their EIFS, but don't have the rust specks to pinpoint the source of the water.