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Non-Invasive EIFS testing

Inspecting EIFS and Stucco goes well beyond the cladding itself. All adjacent systems must be inspected, since many failures occur at the interfaces between the systems. For this reason, the proper term is Building Envelope Inspection. When dealing with wood framed structures, it is extremely important to test for water damage beneath the surface. If water was able to get in, there is likely damage.
 
When dealing with water intrusion, of any type, it can be difficult to determine the original point of entry. This holds true whether it be water entering behind your stucco, stone, EIFS cladding system, or water entering your basement. This is one of the main reasons the substrates (beneath the surface) should be tested.
 
Many times water that is causing damage does not enter where the damage is occurring, but rather at a distant point, and has collected and is rotting the substrate. In many instances, you may not be aware of what is occurring, although there may be tell tale signs of mold or a musty smell.
 
Yes, there are EIFS inspectors that will make you very happy when they tell you that they can inspect you EIFS using non-invasive techniques. This is not so… or lets just say that although they can inspect the EIFS, they cannot determine if there is damage to the structure without proper testing. That is the way it is. There are no short cuts, no magic pills, and no x-ray vision cameras (some inspectors claim to be able to see beneath the surface with infrared cameras)! Now don’t get me wrong, non-invasive inspecting has its place, which is during the installation of new systems.
 
On a brighter note, testing for damage does not mean that your home has to be torn apart. Usually, all that is necessary is to drill very small pinholes for the insertion of the testing equipment. These holes are sealed when the testing is completed, and in most cases are not noticeable. About 50% of the homes I inspect are for purchasing clients, rarely is there a problem with the homeowner refusing to allow a purchaser to have the EIFS properly inspected. If they have confidence in he efficiency of their system, they welcome the inspection, as it will help sell the property. If they refuse the inspection, great doubt is created.
 
Although I live in Staten Island, the majority of the homes that I inspect are located in Brooklyn, Long Island, Westchester, Suffolk and Nassau Counties, etc. Moisture analysis, inspecting EIFS and Stucco is my specialty. I visit many beautiful homes, and am proud of my inspection abilities. It is rare that I do not save my clients exponentially whatever the cost of the inspection. I also perform traditional home inspections for clients, and when doing so, inject the same degree of priority to ensure that heir interests are protected.
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