Alright, let's talk EIFS. If you're checking out this kind of exterior finish for your Oakland place, you're probably trying to figure out the best way to get it installed. Specifically, you're probably looking at barrier EIFS versus drainage EIFS. People ask me about this a lot, so I'm just going to lay it out for you, no fancy words.
So, What's Really Different?
Both barrier and drainage EIFS (that's Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, by the way) give you continuous insulation and a strong, good-looking finish. But they deal with water in totally different ways, and that's the big deal, especially here in Oakland. We get those long, wet winters, don't we? Then it's dry again.
Barrier EIFS: The Original Way
Barrier EIFS is the older, simpler system. The main idea is that the EIFS itself stops water from getting in. It's supposed to be completely watertight, keeping every bit of moisture out. You've got your insulation board, then a reinforced base coat, and finally the finish coat. If it's put on perfectly, it does its job. The thing is, nothing stays perfect forever.
Drainage EIFS: The Smarter Version
Drainage EIFS, sometimes called