Dryvit is the brand name of a stucco company that offers several different siding and construction materials. They make textured acrylic finishes, outsulation (an external type of insulation) and various systems that can be applied over existing stucco. Although EIFS, which is also known as Dryvit, looks great on paper, it can cause issues with moisture that require expensive and invasive repairs. Luckily, the right Dryvit Stucco Installation can help avoid this problem for years.
Moisture Resistance
Dryvit is a brand name for a type of exterior insulating finish system (EIFS) that incorporates rigid foam insulation for savings on energy costs and a beautiful earthy look. It can be used as a replacement for traditional stucco or installed on new construction or renovation projects to add durability and moisture resistance to existing walls. While EIFS has advantages, it can lead to mold build-up and hidden water damage if not installed properly. In comparison, traditional stucco is a mixture that combines Portland cement, lime, sand, and water that is applied to a wall wet, then hardened with heat. The result is a durable, strong wall that naturally resists moisture and is also highly fire resistant.
Dryvit has several systems that can be used in place of traditional stucco or to enhance existing exterior wall systems. They include the NewBrick System, which mimics the appearance of brick without the weight, expense, and installation hassle. The Panelization System is a prefabricated solution that helps to reduce the installation time and cost of a project, while also adding strength and durability. The ReVyvit System is designed to help renovate older buildings that already have a lot of character but are no longer performing well.
Whether you choose to use Dryvit in place of traditional stucco or as an addition to your existing building, it is important to maintain it regularly. This includes inspecting the surface for cracks and damage, as well as cleaning it regularly with a mild detergent to prevent dirt buildup. It is also a good idea to check the areas where Dryvit meets other materials, like windows and doors, to ensure that there are no worn sections or caulking that could allow moisture into the building.
If you do find moisture in your Dryvit, it is important to remove it quickly before it can cause any significant damage. If the problem is left unattended, you may experience mold growth, wood rot, and even structural damage to your home or business.
The best way to protect your Dryvit is to have a professional install it on your home or business. A professional will be able to create an appropriate sealant to stop moisture and air leaks from entering the structure, and they will be able to repair any cracked or damaged areas that are found. They can also apply a coating that will improve breathability, so moisture can escape the building quickly, without damaging the paint and other components.
Aesthetics
Dryvit can add a beautiful and unique look to any building or structure. It comes in many different colors and designs. Some are more textured than others. Regardless of the style, you can be confident that your Dryvit will not crack and discolor over time like traditional stucco.
However, it is important to note that Dryvit should not be used as a substitute for repairing damaged stucco. If your stucco is leaking or letting moisture in, Dryvit won’t be able to prevent this from happening. Therefore, it is essential to get your stucco repaired as soon as possible.
In addition, the durability of Dryvit depends on how well it is installed. If it isn’t installed correctly, then it can be prone to cracking and discoloring. Therefore, it is important to hire a professional who is experienced with installing Dryvit on homes and buildings.
There are six different Dryvit systems to choose from, including a continuous insulation system, an EIFS stucco system, and a decorative system. The system you choose will depend on the style of building you want and your energy efficiency needs. The system you choose will also affect the cost and maintenance of your building.
EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finish System) is a type of wall system that combines a base coat, rigid insulation, and a textured acrylic finish to create a durable and attractive exterior for your building. EIFS is an excellent choice for homes and commercial buildings because it is an energy efficient material that can save you money on your utility bills.
This system has been around for decades, and it continues to be a popular choice among builders and homeowners alike. It can be applied over existing stucco and provides a great way to upgrade the aesthetics of your building without spending a lot of money.
It is also easy to maintain, and it can withstand a variety of weather conditions. If you’re interested in adding Dryvit to your home, contact us today for more information. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and provide you with a free estimate for the service.
Energy Efficiency
While traditional stucco is a great material for residential use, many homeowners opt for the insulating qualities of Dryvit cladding on their homes. This is not a bad choice, but it is important to understand the differences between traditional and EIFS siding. This way you can choose the best product for your project.
EIFS stands for Exterior Insulation and Finish System, a type of insulated coating that is applied over sheathing. It is available in different systems from various manufacturers. Some are acrylic based and some are cement based. A simple type of EIFS, like the kind used by a Dryvit contractor Des Plaines has to offer, is composed of an outer layer made of hard insulation boards covered with a plaster-looking finish. This is a good option for cold climates, as it will provide added thermal comfort for the residents.
The best feature of EIFS is its ability to reduce air leakage and decrease energy costs. It also provides a higher R-value than brick and will help prevent condensation in the walls, which can lead to mold growth and water damage. In addition, the low weight of EIFS means that it can be moved to new locations more easily than other materials such as brick. This is beneficial for contractors who have to work with tight construction sites or for owners who are moving their buildings to new locations.
A major disadvantage of EIFS is that it can suffer from moisture problems if not installed properly. This can lead to mold build-up and hidden water damage in the wall studs. This can be overcome by installing a proper waterproof barrier and by using flashing to stop moisture from entering the wall cavities. Another problem is that moisture can cause EIFS to crack, resulting in damage and requiring costly repairs.
One of the easiest ways to tell if a home has traditional stucco or EIFS is to rap on the exterior of the house with your knuckles. Traditional stucco will have no give and sound solid when rapped on, while EIFS will have some give and sound hollow.
Warranty
Dryvit systems are complete exterior insulation and finish (EIFS) wall systems that include an air/water barrier, a base coat, rigid foam insulation and a textured acrylic finish. These walls are rated as energy efficient and durable. They are also a good choice for homes with masonry walls, because EIFS installs easily on such structures. Dryvit has a line of textured finishes that can imitate the look of stucco, granite, brick and other materials.
In contrast, most staining and painting contractors only offer a single color or a few different shades of paint. With a Dryvit system, you can choose from a wide range of colors and textures that can be custom-mixed to achieve virtually any look or aesthetic. These textured finishes can add to the beauty of the structure and protect it from damage and moisture intrusion.
Stucco and Dryvit both require little maintenance, but it is important to regularly inspect the walls for cracks or deterioration. Regular cleaning with a soft-bristled scrub brush and environmentally friendly detergent will help keep the surface looking like new. It is also a good idea to check the sealant around windows and doors for wear, which may allow moisture to seep into the home.
If the EIFS or stucco has moisture issues, they can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew. In addition, these issues can lead to rot and structural damage in the building’s frame and cladding. It is crucial to address these issues before they become major problems.
Many real estate transactions are ruined when it is discovered that a stucco or EIFS home has moisture problems. In those cases, either the sale falls through or the buyers ask for major price concessions to cover the costs of repairs and potential damage in the future. By having a MoistureFree Warranty in place, you can eliminate these problems before they occur and get the most out of your investment.
It is important to research the companies you hire for a Dryvit stucco installation. Ask how long the company has been in business, and look for a solid warranty. It is not uncommon for some contractors to shut down and rebrand every five to ten years, eliminating their responsibility for any past warranties they had in place.