Other
components that
make up the exterior
building envelope
can also contribute
to the stucco moisture
problems. Typical
sources include
leaking windows
and doors, improperly
designed roof flashing
or lack thereof,
plus all exterior
fixture attachments
and utility penetrations.
A high percentage
of the time, these
other building components
are installed by
different contractors
working independently
and unaware of the
required specifications
which need to be
followed when working
with an EIFS system.
The stucco applicator
has no control over
the activities of
other contractors;
however, the general
contractor does
indeed have the
responsibility of
overseeing the complete
and proper installation
of all the components
of the house.
EIFS
wall systems are
not independent
from all the other
components that
make up the system
we call a house.
Rather, the stucco
is only one part
of the whole. The
whole, being a structure
comprised of many
building components
and systems that
together create
a dwelling. This
dwelling is supposed
to withstand the
forces of nature
and be aesthetically
pleasing so it can
be called a "home."
Day
after day, parties
to a real estate
transaction are
shocked and surprised
when the exterior
stucco becomes an
inspection issue.
The surprise comes
from the identification
of serious problems
behind the stucco.
On the surface,
the home looks gorgeous.
After a close look
and some sweeps
with an electronic
moisture detector,
the home starts
to look less attractive.
As
a result of these
problems, synthetic
stucco has become
the subject of a
class action lawsuit.
Attorney's for the
"class"
are suing the manufacturer.
