Insulate, protect, and refresh your property’s exterior
EIFS, Exterior Insulation and Finish System, is a popular choice across Texas for both residential and commercial exteriors. It adds a durable finish while also boosting energy efficiency. Whether you’re seeing cracks in your current system or looking to modernize your building’s appearance, EIFS can offer serious long-term benefits. Moisture, heat, and settling can all impact performance over time, so if your exterior’s looking worn, it might be time to take a closer look.
Southern Texas Group Construction offers professional EIFS repair, installation, and replacement services throughout Austin and surrounding areas. Our crew brings years of hands-on experience and detail-focused workmanship to every project. From water-damaged panels to full building envelopes, we make sure your EIFS system performs and looks its best.
Installing or fixing EIFS isn’t a one-size-fits-all job. Every property is different, and we approach each project with a tailored plan. Here’s how we make sure your EIFS system holds up for the long haul:
Detailed Evaluation
We start by inspecting the exterior, checking for moisture problems, cracking, or structural issues that could affect performance. This helps us catch early signs of failure and customize the repair or installation to suit your building’s specific conditions.
Prep and Tear-Out
For repairs, we carefully remove only the damaged EIFS. On new installations, we prep surfaces to ensure a strong bond and seamless fit. Clean, even surfaces are key to making sure the new system adheres correctly and performs as designed.
Insulation Board Attachment
We apply foam insulation boards directly to your sheathing or substrate using approved adhesives or mechanical fasteners. This layer adds energy efficiency and forms the foundation of the entire EIFS system.
Base Coat and Reinforcement
A base coat covers the foam and holds a fiberglass mesh layer that strengthens the finish and prevents cracking. The mesh provides essential impact resistance and adds flexibility to handle thermal movement.
Finish Coat Application
We apply your chosen texture and color using high-quality acrylics designed to resist moisture and UV damage. This outer layer protects the system while giving your building a clean, attractive finish.
Edge Detailing and Sealants
Around windows, doors, and joints, we install flashing and apply sealant to prevent water from getting in. These details are crucial for waterproofing and long-term performance, especially in high-moisture areas.
EIFS isn’t just for aesthetics, it protects your structure, cuts down energy costs, and resists Texas weather. Here’s what makes EIFS a smart move:
Improves Insulation: With a continuous foam layer on the outside, EIFS reduces energy loss and helps regulate indoor temperatures.
Manages Moisture: Modern EIFS systems include drainage features that help direct water away before it causes deeper damage.
Boosts Property Appearance: Whether you want a clean, flat look or a custom texture, EIFS comes in a wide variety of finishes that enhance curb appeal.
Reduces Structural Load: EIFS is lightweight compared to stucco and other siding materials, making it a great fit for both new builds and retrofits.
Stands Up to the Elements: EIFS can handle heat, humidity, and UV rays without fading or cracking like traditional finishes.
Not all buildings need a full system replacement. Sometimes, strategic repairs or upgrades are enough. We help you figure out the best fit based on your building’s condition and your goals:
Targeted Repairs: Great for areas with isolated damage or staining. We remove damaged sections and blend in new materials for a seamless repair.
EIFS Upgrades: If your existing system is older and missing drainage components, we can retrofit moisture-resistant improvements.
New Installation: For new construction or major remodels, we build full EIFS systems that meet today’s code and performance standards.
Our team will explain every option clearly, so you’re never left guessing. We focus on results that last, not shortcuts.
EIFS can last decades with proper care, but several factors can weaken it over time:
Trapped Moisture
Older systems without drainage planes can collect water behind the foam, leading to mold or rot inside the wall. Without a path for moisture to escape, damage can spread silently beneath the surface for months or even years.
Impact Damage
EIFS is more flexible than stucco, but it’s still vulnerable to dents or holes from heavy impacts or ongoing stress. Even small dings can break the outer coating and expose the foam to moisture intrusion.
Improper Flashing
If flashing isn’t correctly installed around windows and doors, water can sneak behind the surface and spread. This often results in hidden leaks that eventually show up as interior wall stains or warped finishes.
Poor Installation
Systems that weren’t installed with the right adhesives, mesh, or coatings are more likely to crack, peel, or delaminate. Inconsistent application or shortcuts during install can drastically reduce the lifespan of the entire system.
UV and Weather Exposure
Sunlight, wind, and temperature shifts can wear down cheaper finish coats over time, leading to chalking or fading. Without a protective topcoat or routine maintenance, the system’s appearance and performance may both suffer.
Not sure if your EIFS system needs work? Watch for these common warning signs:
Blistering or Bubbles
Raised spots on the surface may mean moisture is trapped underneath the finish layer. Over time, this trapped water can break down the adhesive and cause the system to separate from the wall.
Cracks or Fractures
Small cracks can grow larger over time. They not only allow moisture in but also weaken the protective barrier that EIFS is designed to provide.
Stains or Dark Spots
Water stains, especially near the base of walls or around windows, are red flags for drainage problems. These areas may be signs of ongoing leaks that could lead to mold or internal wall damage.
Soft or Spongy Areas
If pressing on the wall feels soft, the foam might be pulling away from the structure, or worse, water may have damaged the substrate. These areas usually need immediate attention before the issue spreads.
Mold or Musty Smells Inside
Interior odors or wall discoloration could mean moisture is seeping in from compromised EIFS. If left unchecked, this can lead to indoor air quality issues and costly structural repairs.
While stucco and EIFS may look similar from the curb, they’re built very differently and perform in unique ways. Knowing the difference helps you choose the right option for your Austin property, whether you’re upgrading an existing exterior or starting a new build.
Traditional Stucco
Stucco is a cement-based exterior cladding that’s applied in multiple coats over a lath system. It’s known for its rigid strength and long history of use on residential and commercial buildings throughout Texas. Traditional stucco is durable, fire-resistant, and holds up well in dry climates. However, it’s heavier, more prone to cracking from movement, and doesn’t offer built-in insulation.
EIFS (Exterior Insulation and Finish System)
EIFS is a modern multi-layer system that includes foam insulation, a reinforced base coat, and a synthetic finish. It’s designed to be lightweight, flexible, and energy-efficient. Unlike stucco, EIFS adds continuous insulation to the outside of your walls, which can lower heating and cooling costs. It’s also better at resisting moisture, when installed correctly, because it includes drainage features that help keep water out.
Not sure which is right for your home or commercial property? We’ll assess your exterior, explain the pros and cons, and recommend a system that fits your climate, budget, and design goals.
At Southern Texas Group Construction, we specialize in EIFS systems for homes, businesses, and multi-unit properties. Our in-house team handles the entire process, no subcontractors, no confusion.
EIFS Installation for New Builds
We work with builders, architects, and developers to install EIFS systems that meet both structural and aesthetic goals.
EIFS Repairs and Moisture Control
We pinpoint and fix moisture issues fast, helping you avoid mold growth or deeper structural damage.
Custom Finish Work
From traditional stucco textures to smooth, modern finishes, we install EIFS in the style that fits your design.
Commercial EIFS Services
From shopping centers to office parks, we handle large-scale EIFS applications with efficiency and attention to detail.
Retrofit and Upgrade Solutions
We help owners modernize older systems to meet today’s energy and moisture standards.
We serve clients across Austin and neighboring cities including San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, Buda, Kyle, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Pflugerville, San Marcos, Leander, and Lakeway. No matter the scope, we’re ready to bring dependable results and long-term protection to your project.
How long will my EIFS last?
With proper installation and care, a good EIFS system can last 30 to 50 years or more.
Can you match my building’s existing finish?
Absolutely. We use a range of texture and color options to blend repairs with the current surface.
Is EIFS better than stucco?
EIFS offers better insulation and flexibility. It also weighs less and includes built-in moisture management.
Will I need permits for EIFS work?
For most commercial jobs or major upgrades, yes. We’ll handle all necessary permitting for you.
How soon can you start?
Depending on job size and material availability, we typically start within 2 to 3 weeks of approval.
If your building’s exterior needs a fresh start, Southern Texas Group Construction is ready to help. Our expert EIFS team delivers clean finishes, weather protection, and improved energy efficiency that lasts for years.
Call us today or fill out the contact form to schedule your free estimate. We’re proud to serve Austin and the surrounding cities with EIFS solutions that look sharp and hold strong.
Building Texas with precision, expertise, and unmatched dedication to quality.