EIFS Installation Techniques & Best Practices 2

Question 1

When installing EIFS over a wood-framed wall, what is the minimum required drainage gap behind the insulation board?

Accepted Answer

1/4 inch

Answer

A minimum 1/4-inch drainage gap is required behind the insulation board in drainage-type EIFS assemblies over wood framing to allow moisture to escape.

Question 2

Which type of mesh is required at re-entrant corners in an EIFS installation to prevent cracking?

Accepted Answer

Diagonal corner mesh or stress-relief strips

Answer

Diagonal corner mesh or stress-relief strips are installed at re-entrant corners because stress concentrations at these points require additional reinforcement beyond standard mesh.

Question 3

What is the correct sequence for applying base coat and mesh in a standard EIFS wall assembly?

Accepted Answer

Apply base coat, embed mesh, then apply additional base coat over mesh

Answer

The correct sequence is to apply a base coat, embed the mesh into the wet base coat, then apply a second pass of base coat to fully encapsulate the mesh.

Question 4

What is the minimum distance EIFS should terminate above finished grade?

Accepted Answer

6 inches

Answer

EIFS must terminate a minimum of 6 inches above finished grade to prevent soil contact, moisture wicking, and insect intrusion.

Question 5

During EIFS installation, why must expansion joints be installed at floor lines in multi-story construction?

Accepted Answer

To accommodate differential movement between framing levels and prevent cracking

Answer

Expansion joints at floor lines accommodate differential movement between framing levels caused by thermal cycling, moisture changes, and structural deflection.

(EIFS) Certified Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems Inspector Practice Test

(EIFS) Certified Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems Inspector Practice Test

EIFS Installation Techniques & Best Practices 2