A popular cost cutting construction technique is causing major problems for homeowners in Williamson County. Cement, or stucco, has been used by builders for years as a way to protect a home’s interior from the elements. Synthetic stucco is a more recent invention that initially gained popularity as a way to drastically save money up front. Fast forward several years and a million dollar home may be in store for a repair costing hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Cement is mostly replaced by styrofoam in Exterior Insulation Finish Systems (EIFS) also known as synthetic stucco. A layer of styrofoam is glued to the wooden structure that holds a house up. Then a small amount of cement is painted over the top, making it look like its the real thing — at least initially. Homeowners across the country have reported seeing big pockets of mold several years after the initial install. This is because water is getting up underneath that small layer of cement and has started reaking havoc on the wooden frame underneath.
“A home with an EIFS will fail if not installed per manufacturer standards and workmanship,” said Craig Huseby, owner of LJ Huseby Exteriors. “When using fake stucco, even the smallest mistake may allow water infiltration.”
The foam absorbs moisture when it’s exposed and because there’s nowhere for that water to go, it just sits there. The moisture is then transferred to the wood. Reports of this leading to mold, rot, and insect problems have been reported all over Williamson County.
“If you own a home with EIFIS, call someone to inspect it right away,” Huseby warned. “The sooner the problem is addressed the sooner damages will be stopped.”
Huseby says there are several areas that are more susceptible to water infiltration. You should keep a close eye on synthetic stucco that’s touching shingles, wood trim, and connections to the house for decks. Check those areas first to make sure they’re staying dry.
Look for more information from L J Huseby & Company as it relates to wood rot and how to mitigate fake stucco.
