Oregon Lawmakers Propose Tougher Restrictions on Synthetic Stucco (EIFS)
Jun 21st, 2007 by Jody McLeod
EIFS stands for Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems. It is a synthetic exterior siding that looks like stucco, has been used on Oregon homes and businesses for years and has had its fair share of issues. Proposed Oregon House Bill 2112-B is an attempt by Oregon’s lawmakers to address those issues by severely restricting the use of EIFS and reinforcing the ban on earlier versions of the product.
The problem found with EIFS is that, if it’s not installed correctly, water can seep behind the siding. In a wet climate like Oregon’s this water has no way to dry out. The moisture stays, mold grows, and the claim is, it can make people sick and potentially damage the building. In addition, it can be a perfect environment for termites to tunnel behind if installed too close to the ground. Manufacturers say the updated versions of the product no longer have the same issues as before.
If you are considering buying a house with synthetic stucco on the exterior be sure to have it professionally inspected by someone who specializes in this type of product. Replacing siding down the road can be very expensive and risking your health is just not worth it.
What do you do if you own a home with EIFS? If you didn’t have it professionally inspected when you bought the house, I would suggest you have it looked over by a professional - the sooner the better.
Further Reading:
Statesman Journal Article: Proposal Would Toughen Ban on Fake Stucco
DSP Inspections.com EIFS page
A Cut Above Exteriors
USInspect EIFS background information
Technorati Tags: Oregon, synthetic stucco, EIFS, House bill 2112, siding, mold, termites, home, inspection, stucco, ban
Related posts:
