​​Frequently Asked Questions about EIFS and Stucco

What is EIFS?

Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) are non-load bearing, exterior wall cladding systems that consist of insulation board that is either adhesively or mechanically attached to the substrate; an integrally reinforced base coat; and a protective textured finish coat.

Are your EIFS NFPA 285 compliant?

Yes, our EIFS meet NFPA 285 for use in types I through IV construction. This information can be found in our system evaluation reports or in our NFPA 285 Wall Assembly brochure.

What is the R-Value of your EIFS?

The R-value of an EIFS is determined by the thickness of the continuous insulation layer. The below chart outlines R-values of the most common insulation used in EIFS; 1 lb. density expanded polystyrene (EPS).

1 pcf Density EPS Thickness	​R-value @ 75F
​1” EPS	​3.8
​1.5” EPS	​5.7
2” EPS	​7.6
​2.5” EPS	​9.5
​3” EPS	​11.4
​3.5” EPS	​13.3
​4” EPS	​15.2
​​Type I, 1 pcf density EPS with R Value of 3.8/inch

Can your finishes be tinted?

Yes! All of our finishes can be tinted to the color of your choice. We have a large selection of standard colors in our Color Selector Guide and are able to tint our finish to custom colors. Our skilled color matching team can closely match virtually any color of your choice. Please contact your local Finestone distributor to place a standard or a custom order.

Can your EIFS be adhesively attached to the Huber Zip System?

Huber ZIP sheathing panels are oriented strand boards (OSB) with improved performance properties. The Huber ZIP System further incorporates seam treatment and flashing that allows it to function as an air/water-resistive barrier. Huber Zip Sheathing and the Zip System are typically used in Type V framed construction.

Finestone offers a range of EIFS and stucco systems than can be applied over Huber Zip products.

Finestone Pebbletex DCA EIFS provides a higher level of wind resistance because it is adhesively fastened to Huber Zip Sheathing. A Finestop RA/RS/VB fluid-applied air/water-resistive barrier is part of the Pebbletex DCA system. While Huber Zip Sheathing is an approved substrate for Pebbletex DCA EIFS, Huber joint treatments and flashings are not suitable for use with Pebbletex DCA EIFS, and shall not be used with this system.

Where a full Huber Zip System is desired, including Huber tapes and flashings, mechanically-fastened EIFS or stucco must be selected. Finestone Stucco and Pebbletex-D10 EIFS are suitable choices. Note that mechanically-fastened EIFS provide lower wind resistance than adhesively-fastened EIFS. Use of a bond breaker such as building paper is required for Finestone Stucco.

Huber Zip Sheathing is acceptable for use with Finestone Stucco Plus, Finestone Stucco Ultra, Platinum CI Stucco Plus and Platinum CI Stucco Ultra stucco systems that incorporate a Finestop RA/RS/VB fluid-applied air/water-resistive barrier. While Huber Zip Sheathing is an approved substrate for Finestone Stucco Plus, Finestone Stucco Ultra, Platinum CI Stucco Plus and Platinum CI Stucco Ultra, Huber joint treatments and flashings are not suitable for use with these systems, and shall not be used with Finestone Stucco Plus, Finestone Stucco Ultra, Platinum CI Stucco Plus or Platinum CI Stucco Ultra.

Do aesthetic reveals function as expansion joints?

Reveals in the surface of EPS in EIFS systems are a practical/functional way to create a particular appearance or break up large wall areas which eases the finish application. If movement relief is necessary, a full expansion joint with sealant is necessary. The placement and size of the expansion joints are the responsibility of the design professional.

Why is a slip sheet or other bond break used over fluid applied air/water resistive barriers (AWRB) on framed construction prior to stucco applications?

A slip sheet or bond break is used due to potential compatibility/inadequate bond between the stucco and AWRB as well as isolate the AWRB from the stucco to allow independent movement between the materials.

What can be done to improve the crack resistance properties of a new Stucco System or remediate minor cracking in existing stucco?

DiamondShield, a balanced, open-grid, triaxial glass fiber mesh specifically engineered for use with Finestone base coats as an overlay, applied over new or existing stucco (Portland cement plaster) systems distributes stress across three directions, which improves the tensile and flexural strength of stucco thereby providing enhanced crack resistance properties.

Can Finestone finishes be painted?

Yes, all of our finishes can be painted. Click here >> to see a wide array of coatings we manufacture.

Are EIFS in the building code?

Yes, they are included in both the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC).

How do I remove mold from the surface of my finish?

Mold and mildew are living organisms consisting of a root system and a “bloom”. These must be completely removed or killed to stop growth. To kill the roots and remove the bloom, use a fungus, mildew, mold and algae remover in conjunction with low-pressure power-washing. Cold-water power-washing alone may actually drive the roots deeper into the finish and create a stronger, healthier growth. Avoid phosphate-based cleaners such as trisodium phosphate (TSP) when cleaning mold and mildew. Although TSP and other phosphate-based cleaners may be useful for removing dirt; mold and mildew thrive on phosphates. To treat stains which remain after mold and mildew removal, apply a solution of 1 part household bleach and 20 parts clean water to the wall with a soft bristle brush. Rinse the wall thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of bleach solution.

I don’t like the color of my finish, what is the best way to change it?

COLOR COAT can be used to change the color of any Finestone Wall Systems or other compatible EIFS finish.

What is the maximum thickness of EPS insulation board that can be used in Finestone Pebbletex DCA Wall System?

12 inches is the maximum allowable insulation board thickness for use with noncombustible construction (types I-IV). For additional information please reference ICC-ES Evaluation report ESR-1878.

How long do I have to wait before applying Finestone Finish over stucco?

Allow stucco to cure for a minimum of 6 days prior to the application of Finestone Finish coats.

What is the proper spacing for control joint in stucco applications?

The joint spacing should meet the following criteria:

• No length should exceed 18 feet in either direction.
• No panel should exceed 144 square feet for vertical applications
• No panel should exceed 100 square feet for horizontal, curved, or angular sections.
• No length-to-width ratio should exceed 2 ½ to 1 in any given panel.
  

Can stucco be applied directly to the substrate without plaster base/lath?

Application over substrates of poured concrete/unit masonry to a maximum thickness of 5/8” may be installed without the use of metal lath in accordance with ASTM C-926. A secondary air/water-resistive barrier is not required on unit masonry/non-insulated concrete substrates surfaces to receive a direct applied Finestone Stucco Wall System.

Where can I find colors or obtain a color sample?

Click here>> for access to the electronic color chart. Color samples and a physical color chart may be obtained through your local Finestone distributor.

Where can I purchase Finestone products?

Materials can be purchased through an authorized Finestone distributor.  Click here>> to locate a distributor in your area.

How I locate an approved Finestone contractor to install materials?

Contact your local authorized Finestone distributor for an approved contractor list and recommendations. Click here>> to locate a distributor in your area.