FAQ

Traditional hard-coat stucco contains Portland cement, lime and sand. It’s applied directly onto concrete or masonry in up to three coats and dries to a rock-like finish.

EIFS, on the other hand, is acrylic and applied in multiple layers over exterior sheathing such as plywood or polystyrene.

Pros of Stucco
Affordable
Cures rapidly
Easy to repair
Less likely to absorb water

Cons of Stucco
Heavy. Weighs 10lbs per sq. ft.
Prone to cracking over time
Susceptible to buckling in extremely hot weather

Pros of Eifs
Insulating properties: R-value (a rating of how much heat a material prevents entering or exiting a property) between 4 and 5.6
Less prone to cracking and crumbling due to thermal expansion or shifting foundations
Fiberglass layer increases durability
80% lighter than hard coat stucco

Cons of Eifs
More complex and time-consuming installation process
Not suitable for DIY installation
More expensive than traditional stucco
Difficult to customize

Eifs is concidered to be synthetic stucco.
EIFS is an acrylic product that installers apply to an under-panel, such as an insulation board, plyboard, polystyrene sheet or another exterior sheathing. It’s more flexible than traditional stucco and consists of a moisture barrier, foam insulation, cement basecoat, reinforcing fiberglass mesh and an acrylic finish. Synthetic stucco is 80% lighter than traditional hard-coat and relatively durable, due to containing fiberglass. It also boasts an R-value (the ability to resist heat flow) between 4 and 5.6, making for efficiently insulated homes.

EIFS, or Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, is a type of wall cladding system that consists of a layer of insulation board covered with a finish coat made of acrylic or polyurethane-based material. EIFS is similar to stucco in appearance, but it is thicker and more energy-efficient due to the added layer of insulation.

The leading reason EIFS has gained popularity is the increased insulation. EIFS is more flexible than traditional stucco as well, so there is less cracking and crumbling as a result of shifting foundations or thermal expansion. The fiberglass layer provides more durability, even against hard blows from weather.
EIFS is notably lighter than traditional stucco, however. It is 80-percent lighter than stucco, but it has a higher R-value, coming in between 4 and 5.6, which is notably higher than the 0.20 R-value of regular stucco.

Stucco is a type of exterior wall finish made from a mixture of water, cement, sand, and lime. It is typically applied in a thin layer over a surface made of concrete, brick, or wood.

Stucco and EIFS offer a number of benefits, including:

• Durability: Both stucco and EIFS are resistant to weathering, rot, and insect infestations, making them a long-lasting choice for exterior walls.
• Low maintenance: Stucco and EIFS require minimal maintenance, making them a convenient choice for busy homeowners or business owners.
• Energy efficiency: EIFS, in particular, can help reduce energy costs by providing insulation to the building envelope.
• Aesthetic appeal: Stucco and EIFS can add visual interest and appeal to the exterior of a building, with a variety of colors and finishes available.

The length of time required for stucco or EIFS installation will depend on the size and complexity of the project. In general, stucco installation can take anywhere from a few days to a week, while EIFS installation may take longer due to the added layer of insulation.

Stucco and EIFS can be applied to most types of surfaces, including concrete, brick, and wood. However, it is important to ensure that the surface is properly prepared and in good condition before applying stucco or EIFS.

Yes, stucco and EIFS can be repaired if they are damaged. Small cracks or chips can typically be repaired with a patching compound, while larger areas of damage may require more extensive repairs.

Like any exterior finish, stucco and EIFS can develop cracks over time due to various factors such as settling, weathering, and movement of the underlying structure. However, proper installation and maintenance can help reduce the risk of cracking.

The cost of stucco or EIFS installation will vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the project, the type of material used, and any additional features or finishes. It is important to get an estimate from Heartland Stucco to get a sense of the costs involved in your project.

Stucco and EIFS can last for decades if they are properly installed and maintained. However, the lifespan may be shorter if the material is not properly cared for or if it is exposed to severe weather conditions.