Certified Third-Party EIFS Inspection
AWCI-Certified EIFS Inspector
Why we are certified in EIFS.
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) have been singled out (fairly or unfairly) as one of the primary causes for moisture damage in wood construction, especially on residential projects. Since the mid 1990's moisture problems have been found through out the United States. The majority of these projects have certain like characteristics. Ambient moisture levels are high, plastic vapor barriers are used on the interior of structure, manufactured window units have leaked, rapid building growth has occurred and certain tried, true and required details have been ignored.   All of these conditions exist in Southeastern Michigan and the possibility of water intrusion  is very real. Consequently, relocation services, buyers, and owners are requesting and  requiring that EIFS inspections be performed before any contracts are signed.  Inspectors  with little or no training in EIFS installations have introduced confusion for an already  troubled issue.  A proper inspections in plaster claddings is a must. Need Information, a pre-estimate, or want to make a comment?
Who should provide your EIFS Inspection?
In an attempt to prevent further misinformation by uninformed, lightly trained and inexperienced individuals, Synthetic Plastering, Inc. received certification through the AWCI program of EIFS-Doing it Right in 2001. This professional certification qualifies us to provide complete EIFS inspections on residential or commercial properties. Our inspections provide in depth information into whether a structure is properly detailed, whether a moisture problem exists or is likely to exist and provide recommendations on how best to solve any deficiencies. In order to maintain the independence required for these inspections we will not offer repair on problems discovered and will refrain from inspecting any project in which we have participated in.

Third-Party EIFS Inspections

In order to meet the requirements as set forth in International Building Codes, Section 1704.12 the third party inspection should consist of the following:

1. Pre-installation meeting. A pre-installation EIFS meeting should be held including representatives of the architect, general contractor, representative of the EIFS manufacturer, EIFS contractor and any and all other sub-contractors whose work will interface with the EIFS (drywall, windows, waterproofing, roofing...etc.). Prior to the meeting we should receive copies of all project plans, projects specifications and manufacturer's details and specifications for review.

2. Site visits. Sire visits shall be held at the following specific stages of the project to verify adherence to project documents:

  •      A. Inspection of substrate and flashing
  •      B. Inspection of back wrapping mesh and foam installation.
  •      C. Application of re-enforcing mesh and base coat.
  •      D. Application and protection of the finish coat.
  •      E. Joint preparation and installation of sealants.

3. Within the context of each site visit the following observations will be performed:

  • Protection of system including storage, temperature minimums for curing, ultraviolet damage to insulation boards and protection from moisture while curing.
  • Adherence to manufacturer's and project detailing including, but not limited to, proper insulation board, proper mesh type, proper joint design, proper sealant and backer rod and proper penetrations.

4. After each site visit a checklist of observations along with corrections, if required, will be provided to the designated party. Upon completion of the project a narrative report, including photographs, will be provided.
 

What else do you need to know?
In addition to EIFS inspection service, we continue to be an strong proponent for greater training and supervision of EIFS contractors. Whether trade organizations, industry groups, distributors, manufacturers, government agencies or independent third party inspectors eventually provide this training and oversight is not important to us. The need to protect property owners, whether commercial or residential, and contractors from unscrupulous operators and inferior products and workmanship is very important to us.

If you have questions or wish to order an inspection, please contact us at (800) 699-6649 or email us at info@syntheticplastering.com
Below grade terminations = termites!