Questions
and
Answers
Contact Us: 303-840-1630
Contact Us:
Office: 303-840-1630
Fax: 303-841-7293
email:
ESEC@mindspring.com
NAHB Protocol & Inspection Information
Information Sites:
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THE FOLLOWING ARE
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
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Q 1. What is Moisture Intrusion? How does it effect Stucco or Exterior Insulation & Finish Systems (EIFS)? Answer
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Q 2. Is Colorado too dry to have Moisture Intrusion problems? Answer
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Q 3. What can I look for that would indicate I may have a Moisture Intrusion problem in an Existing Home? Answer
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Q 4. Where can I get information about protocols and moisture testing equipment? Answer
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Q 5. Do I need an inspection for New Construction with Stucco or EIFS? Answer
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Q 6. If I have problems, does the stucco always have to be removed from the house? Answer
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Q 7. Should I have my home re‑inspected after repairs are made? Answer
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Q 8. Why do I need a stucco or EIFS inspection? Isn't that covered by my home inspection? Answer
Q 1. What is Moisture Intrusion? How does it effect Stucco or Exterior Insulation & Finish Systems (EIFS)?
A. Moisture Intrusion occurs when water penetrates the building's exterior weatherproof barrier. Over time, if undetected, this moisture can cause damage to both the EIFS system and the Structural system. An additional problem is that trapped moisture can support mold, mildew and fungus growth. Top
Q 2. Is Colorado too dry to have Moisture Intrusion problems?
A. Our Semi‑Arid climate has intermittent periods of dry weather and intense wind driven rains that can cause significant water intrusion. Thus, it may take longer for significant deterioration to occur. Top
Q 3. What can I look for that would indicate that I may have a Moisture Intrusion problem in an Existing Home?
Check for the
following items. If they are observed,
further investigation is suggested.
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Does the caulking properly seal stucco to window and door frames?
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Is there staining on the stucco walls below where gutters end?
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Is there cracking or bulging in the stucco? Is the stucco loose or soft?
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Are there any penetrations in the stucco that are not properly sealed, i.e. decks, railings, vents, pipes, logs, etc.?
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Are there visible signs of water damage on interior walls, ceilings or floors? Top
Q 4. Where can I get information about inspection protocols and moisture testing equipment?
A. Go to NAHB Research Center, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the National Association of Home Builders at www.nahbrc.org and type EIFS in the search box. A list of public domain information is displayed. Choose # 8 - Moisture testing guide for wood frame construction clad with EIFS to download an Adobe Acrobat pdf file of the moisture testing protocols. Top
Q 5. Do I need an inspection for New Construction with Stucco or EIFS?
A. It is important to remember that a Stucco or EIFS exterior is an excellent wall system only when it has been properly installed according to manufacturer's specifications. In‑progress inspections, as the stucco is being installed, provide the best opportunity to identify improper installations so that they may be readily addressed. If the stucco application has been completed, a visual inspection will identify possible Moisture Intrusion locations so that they may be properly repaired. Top
Q 6. If I have problems, does the stucco always have to be removed from the house?
A. No, typically repairs can be accomplished with limited invasive measures. The earlier Moisture Intrusion is detected the more economical the repairs and less likely that structural damage will have occurred. Top
Q 7. Should I have my home re‑inspected after repairs are made?
A. Yes, it is good idea to have repairs inspected soon after completion. It is also wise to have your home inspected annually as a part of routine maintenance to verify that the system is performing as intended. Should you decide to sell your home, annual inspections and repair documentation would be a valuable selling tool. Top
Q 8. Why do I need a Stucco or EIFS inspection? Isn't that covered by my home inspection?
A. The purpose of the Stucco Moisture Analysis is to access the condition of the stucco system for visible installation issues, inadequate water diversion and sealant failures. If necessary, the inspector will conduct random moisture readings using electronic moisture devices. Most home inspectors lack the expertise and specialized equipment necessary to properly assess the waterproofing integrity of stucco systems. Top