Editor's note: This article was originally published as part of an AIA/CES Discovery course: "EIFS: How to succeed with exterior insulation and finish systems." Take this free course at BDCUniversity.com.
After vast swaths of Europe were destroyed in World War II, cities looked to rebuild quickly and inexpensively. EIFS was first introduced in Germany during the post-war years as a wall system that enabled the rapid redevelopment of devastated areas.
The technology was brought to the United States in 1969 by the building product manufacturer Dryvit, and it gained popularity during the energy crisis of the 1970s, when retrofitting walls with exterior insulation improved performance and cut energy costs.
The EIFS industry continued to enjoy steady growth through the 1980s, thanks chiefly to the product’s insulating properties, light weight, aesthetic flexibility, low cost, and versatility. In addition to new construction, EIFS was commonly used for retrofits, where it could be applied easily over existing exterior walls to improve energy profile and provide a fresh appearance.
Available in a wide range of colors, shapes, and textures, EIFS allowed architects the flexibility to design new façade profiles at a relatively low construction cost.
This versatility led to the proliferation of EIFS in the residential and light commercial markets. In 1981, the EIFS Industry Members Association was formed to advocate for EIFS manufacturers and improve product performance.
Related Stories
Architects | May 9, 2017
Spiezle Architectural Group looks to the future
Now in its seventh decade, the firm expands its portfolio and moves into a larger HQs.
Architects | May 9, 2017
Movers + Shapers: The social connector
Studio Gang gains fans with buildings that unite people and embrace the outside world.
Architects | May 5, 2017
An acquisition extends Eppstein Uhen Architects’ national footprint
Has architects in 35 states after acquiring Burkettdesign in Denver.
Great Solutions | May 5, 2017
No nails necessary: Framing system comes together with steel zip ties and screws
Clemson University’s School of Architecture develops a patent-pending construction method that is gaining attention for its potential use in rapid, low-tech sustainable housing.
Multifamily Housing | May 3, 2017
Silicon Valley’s high-tech oasis
An award-winning rental complex takes its design cues from its historic location in Silicon Valley.
Architects | May 3, 2017
Avoiding trouble in paradise: Tips on building successfully in the Caribbean
The island setting itself is at the root of several of these disruptive assumptions.
![Multifamily housing today: 7 exciting, inspiring innovations [AIA Course]](/sites/default/files/styles/list_big/public/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-02%20at%2011.55.02%20AM.png?itok=ZS_4opT9 "Multifamily housing today: 7 exciting, inspiring innovations [AIA Course]")
Multifamily Housing | May 2, 2017
Multifamily housing: 7 exciting, inspiring innovations [AIA Course]
This AIA CES course features seven novel approaches developers and Building Teams are taking to respond to competitive pressures and build more quickly and with more attractive offerings.
Healthcare Facilities | May 1, 2017
Designing patient rooms for the entire family can improve patient satisfaction and outcomes
Hospital rooms are often not designed to accommodate extended stays for anyone other than the patient, which can have negative effects on patient outcome.
Architects | Apr 27, 2017
Number of U.S. architects holds steady, while professional mobility increases
New data from NCARB reveals that while the number of architects remains consistent, practitioners are looking to get licensed in multiple states.
