EIFS

This course will prepare the student to perform a level one moisture inspection on an EIFS class PB residential structure.

Class Curriculum:

Introduction

• Residential EIFS moisture inspections

General EIFS knowledge

• Overview on the history of EIFS
• Definition
• System components
• Types of EIFS

Discussion on moisture theory

1. Water activity level
2. Mechanisms of moisture movement in buildings and structures
   • Vapor diffusion
   • Air movement
   • Capillary suction
   • Infiltration (leaks)
3. Wood equilibrium concept
4. Moisture penetration profiles

Inspection instruments and their usage

Moisture meters

1. Tramex wet wall
   • Applications
   • Principles of operation
   • How to use it correctly
   • False readings
   • Limitations
2. Probe type meters
   • Applications
   • Principles of operation
   • How to use it correctly
   • False readings
   • Limitations

Other tools

1. Hygrometers
   • Applications
   • Principles of operation
   • How to use it correctly
   • False readings
   • Limitations
2. Cameras
3. Ladders
4. Miscellaneous tools

Inspection process

Primary documentation

1. Client information
2. Building location
3. Interview questions
4. Environmental conditions
5. Building structure and characteristics
6. Photographic details
7. Elevation drawings
   • Establishing reference points
8. Forms
   • Checklists
9. Reporting methods and systems

Inspection methodology

• Work a pattern
• Equipment setup
• Methods of recording notes

Exterior examination

• Grounds and grading
• Windows
• Doors
• Roof wall intersections
• Chimneys
• Decks
• Small penetrations
• Sealant joints
• Wall surfaces
  

Visual clues

1. Building characteristics
   • Common concerns with various styles and designs
   • Integration of components
     
     
2. Red flags
   • Integration of components
   • Missing or improper flashings
   • Rotted wood
   • Inadequate or improper caulking
     
     
3. Repaired areas
   • Inadequate repairs

Discussion of EIFS inspection protocol

1. Moisture Free warranty
   • Methodology
   • Applications
   • Limitations
     
     
2. Dryvit class action settlement
   • Methodology
   • Applications
   • Limitations
     
     
3. Parex
   • Methodology
   • Applications
   • Limitations
     
     
4. ERC 3.01A
   • Methodology
   • Applications
   • Limitations
     
     
5. EIMA
   • Methodology
   • Applications
   • Limitations
     
     
6. USG
   • Methodology
   • Applications
   • Limitations

Comparisons of protocols

• Similarities
• Differences
• Choosing an inspection protocol

Writing the report

What to include in the report

1. Primary documentation
2. Reference system on house
   • Abbreviation systems
   • Elevation drawings
   • Photographic
3. Photographic Documentation
4. Checklist of features
5. Specific notes on house
6. Summary of findings
7. Signature
8. Handwritten vs. computer reports
9. Onsite vs. Office generated reports
10. Sample reports

Knowledge assessment test

8 NACHI HRs
8 NAHI CEU
8 ASHI MRC's
8 Type B CREIA CEC's