EIF facade concerns

Hello i’m about to close on a brownstone in brooklyn and it has an EIF system. I’m very concerned since I hear they are not good. I was wondering if anyone could recommend an expert to take a look at it and let me know if it needs to be sealed better and to also get a quote to take the entire thing down and go to stucco or brick. I’m stuck with it right now but need to plan for changing this facade in the future.

bushwickbk

in Facade and Brownstone Repair 10 years and 2 months ago

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shadow01 | 10 years and 2 months ago

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Hi you can try Dan at 718 485 1044 he is very affordable and reliable I’m sure he will work something out with you. good luck.

Augustiner | 10 years and 2 months ago

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A brick wall as alternative to insulation? Siding as alternative to insulation? I guess oil and gas are still too cheap.

babysladkaya | 10 years and 2 months ago

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Agree with everyone here who said that EFIS is an issue. We passed on the house that had EFIS all over it, the inspector said to repair, would cost 20K, but he strongly suggested just taking it off and replacing with another form of siding, which would cost 60K, in NY, since the rules are so lax, there is a very slight chance that the installation is done properly, it looks good, all nice and smooth but really, a piece of junk.

CTG | 10 years and 2 months ago

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I am a licensed architect that specializes in exterior wall design / waterproofing issues. EIFS widely regarded in our industry is as the WORST & CHEAPEST exterior system available and is often used as a “Band-Aid” to hide crumbling mortar. You need to find out if the EIFS was applied directly on top of the existing stone façade (BAD) or if the original stone façade was taken off first before the EIFS was installed (BETTER). Of course the best solution would be to tear it all off and redo in brick. Would also increase property value 🙂

nalusurf | 10 years and 2 months ago

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We lived in a new condo finished with an EIF System. As August points out, it is a good system when properly installed, the problem lies with with installers. We had our building inspected by a certified EIFS inspector and I learned quite a bit. EIFS MUST be installed by a licensed/certified company trained in the proper installation methods of this finishing system. From what I understand this does not typically happen and it is poorly regulated, and when it is installed improperly it is one of the worst exterior finishes on the market. There are quite a number of lawsuits throughout the country. Our inspector was Steven Turetsky, here is a link to his web site and contact info, http://www.homeinspectionsnewyork.com/ He will be able to tell you if it was properly installed. Good luck!

Augustiner | 10 years and 2 months ago

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If dedicated materials have been properly installed, EIFS is a very efficient insulation. In fact it is pretty much standard in Northern Europe on retrofit insulation for a long time. There is nothing wrong with EIFS in general. Check if the exterior is intact or if there are holes, and more importantly if the edges are properly sealed with caulk. If that’s the case then there is absolutely no reason to tear it down.

Putnamdenizen | 10 years and 2 months ago

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Is this where they build with what looks like rigid insulation and just stucco over it?

NeoGrec | 10 years and 2 months ago

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Richard Perri inspected a condo I purchased a few years ago. The building has an EIF facade on the top floors (a new extension atop an old shell). He is quite knowledgeable — and skeptical — about this building method having seen it fail in the past. At the same time, he was clear that it could last reasonably well with good maintenance even if it needs to be replaced eventually. Here’s what his report stated: “As discussed at the inspection, the added exterior walls were constructed with methods and materials which are extremely vulnerable to water penetration and leaks. Leaks through the walls will occur. As leaks occur, re-siding the Exterior Insulated Finishing (EIF) System with stucco will be necessary. The cladding will require regular flashing repairs and caulking. Retain a professional exterior waterproofing contractor.” Reach him here: Professional Home Inspections Inc. 718.828.9116 phi@richperri.com