Fallout from the controversy
surrounding exterior insulation
and finish systems (EIFS)
continues. In a recent move,
U.S. Gypsum, Inc., a major
manufacturer of EIF systems,
has pulled its "barrier EIFS"
from the market after
concluding that they are
impractical. (Barrier EIFS
relies on a continuous
waterproof exterior surface
to protect against rain and
humidity, but provide no
exit for water that may
penetrate the surface.)
However, U.S. Gypsum
says it still has faith in its
"water-management finish
systems," which — unlike
EIFS — have flashing,
drainage plane, and weephole
details designed to allow
water that penetrates beneath
the surface to escape from the
system instead of remaining
within the wall (see drawing
at right).
U.S. Gypsum says its
water-management systems
give builders the visual
advantages of EIFS — a stucco-
like look