EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finish System) is a non-load bearing exterior wall finishing system that gives the building a stucco-like appearance. See links below for more information.

Typical EIFS systems: 

Standard EIFS

Weather Barrier EIFS

Drainage EIFS   

Direct Applied EIFS

A standard installation includes the substrate, polystyrene foam board applied to the substrate with adhesive, a fiberglass reinforcement mesh, a base coat (usually 1/16th to 1/4 inch thick) and a  finish coat.

Weather barrier EIFS  is first installed over the substrate (generally Dens Glas Gold, exterior-grade gypsum sheathing, OSB or plywood). The moisture barrier is applied to the entire wall surface with a mesh tape over joints and a trowel applied membrane. Then, a base coat and reinforcing mesh troweled until the mesh is fully encapsulated within the base coat. A finish coat is then applied.

Drainage EIFS is similar to the weather barrier EIFS however,  the adhesive under the EPS Insulation board is troweled vertically allowing moisture to escape. A drainage track is installed at the bottom of wall with mesh tape applied along the drainage track flange. This is intended to provide a path for incidental water that may get behind the EIFS with a safe route back to the outside. The purpose is to preclude water from damaging the supporting wall.

Direct Applied is a system applied over horizontal surfaces using Dens glas Gold or fiber cement board with the joints covered with reinforcing mesh over the entire surface. A base coat 1/16 to 1/4 inch thick covered with finish coat. EPS insulation board is not recommended.