EIFSFACTS.ORG

The Real Facts About EIFS  

- Beware of Termites -

Some of the first homes in North Carolina found to have extensive moisture-intrusion problems were also found to have infestations of termites. Subsequent investiagtions found that the termites entered the home through the edges of the foam board in EIFS systems that were run down to grade. Termite inspectors are normally able to walk around the perimeter of a foundation and check for invasion by looking for termite tunnels. These are the tell-tale structures termites build to bridge their way from the soil to their entry point into the home. When EIFS is down to grade there are no tunnels. The termites simply bore directly into the foam board. Many termite inspection companies in the Southeastern U.S. will no longer inspect and guarantee a home with EIFS to grade. Some homes have had the EIFS cut off at 6 or 8 inches above grade, or have had an "inspection" band cut into the system. If you own a home with EIFS to grade it would be wise to have a termite inspection and guarantee while they can still be had.

Note: Beginning in 1996, EIFS manufacturers began specifying that EIFS be held off a minimum of 8 inches above grade. Homes built since 1996 should not have the product to grade. An extensive study of the problem was conducted by Clemson University an is available here.

We have also received information about the position of the National Pest Control Association (NPCA) on EIFS.