Architectural Styles That Use Foam & Dryvit

Classical

• EIFS is a system that mimics stucco. Stucco is an exterior veneer developed in antiquity, therefore EIFS is appropriate for Classical and Neoclassical architectural styles. In addition, the foam components of the EIFS system can easily be shaped to create pilasters, quoins and pediments common to the Classical style. The EIFS exterior surfaces can be smooth coated to mimic marble, or troweled to create rusticated surfaces that mimic hewed stone.

Mediterranean

• Many Mediterranean or Italianate-styled buildings use EIFS for their exterior veneer. Stucco and plaster were common finishes for these traditional buildings. The lower cost and improved structural characteristics of EIFS, as well as its ability to mimic stucco, makes this system a strong alternative to traditional stucco and plaster, which are expensive to maintain and constantly crack.

Colonial and Federal

• Although the Colonial and Federal styles are not appropriate for EIFS, some still use EIFS to sheath these types of houses. In some cases, the EIFS is shaped and struck to mimic wood siding, but generally the EIFS is smooth troweled. The ease of maintenance and relative low cost, in contrast to brick, clapboard siding and wood detailing, make EIFS an understandable substitute.

Modern

• Modern architects appreciate the stucco-like character of EIFS, and they often use the system with minimal detailing and a consistent, smooth finish. Throughout the history of Modernism, stucco and EIFS have been used to clad buildings to give a sense of clean, functional machine-finished structure.

Fanciful Theme

• Because the insulative foam material of EIFS is easily cut and shaped, this finish is often used in amusement and theme parks. The foam can be sculpted to create almost any form, such as underwater environments, circus tents, futuristic cities and ancient worlds. Furthermore, the fiberglass reinforcing in EIFS makes the system very strong, able to withstand heavy or constant use. An excellent example of a fanciful theme with EIFS is the Seuss Landing at Universal's Islands of Adventure theme park, which brings to life the environments in Dr. Seuss's books and has no straight lines throughout the theme area.