SEDL / STP / STP1314-EB / STP12112S

In Situ Assessment of Moisture Levels in Exterior Walls of Single-Family Residences Clad with Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS)

Williams, MF
President, Williams Building Diagnostics Inc., Maple Glen, PA

Williams, BL
Vice President, Williams Building Diagnostics Inc., Maple Glen, PA

Hamilton, LJ
Manager of Technical Services, Williams Building Diagnostics Inc., Maple Glen, PA

Pages: 7    Published: Jan 1998

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Abstract

This paper discusses comparative test results obtained using different kinds of moisture meters on mockup walls clad in an exterior insulation and finish system (EIFS). The accuracy and efficacy of intrusive and non-intrusive meters as moisturescreening tools was evaluated. Specifically, a mockup of the most commonly used EIFS wall assembly was constructed and a known quantity of water was introduced into the various layers of the assembly. Moisture meters were then used to determine their effectiveness in locating moisture within the mockup wall. Comparison of the moisture meter data found that non-intrusive meters appear to be a practical, effective, and accurate means of moisture detection when supplemented with intrusive meter use. This finding is important since the need to screen EIFS-clad residences for moisture has increased due to recent findings of moisture behind EIFS claddings installed on some houses.