There are various alternative models for EIFS and Retrofit Systems. EIFS systems have clear benefits in comparison to these alternatives and are the best solution for retrofit projects. The table below highlights the risks and inconveniences of the alternatives to EIFS.
| Alternatives to EIFS | ||
|---|---|---|
| Alternative Systems | Risks & Inconveniences of alternatives to EIFS | Benefits of EIFS compared to alternatives |
|
Interior Insulation
|
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| Reduces indoor space | Does not reduce indoor space since it is installed on the exterior façade | |
| Occupants need to move out during installation | Occupants do not need to move out during installation | |
| Creates thermal bridges which can transfer heat | Does not create thermal bridges | |
|
Aluminum Composite Panels (ACP)
|
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| Fire Safety risk since it uses flammable base materials | Uses fire retardant base materials | |
| Limited colour options | Virtually unlimited colour and finish options | |
| Poor energy efficiency | Extremely good energy efficiency with a saving of up to 50% | |
| Poor insulation | Extremely good heat and cold insulation | |
| Less design flexibility | Very high design flexibility | |
|
Autoclaved Lightweight Concrete (ALC)
|
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| Poor water vapour resistance | Excellent resistance to water vapour and liquid water | |
| Surface plaster can crack easily | Excellent crack resistance with flexible exterior coatings | |
| Brittle | Excellent Durability | |
| Limited thermal efficiency | Excellent thermal efficiency | |
|
Fiber Cement
|
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| Absorbs and retains moisture | Good vapour permeability does not retain moisture | |
| Poor energy efficiency | Excellent energy efficiency | |
| Difficult to install | Easy to install and repair | |
| Requires regular maintenance | Requires very little maintenance | |
| Joints tend to crack due to thermal movement | Does not crack regardless of climatic variations | |
|
Cavity Wall Insulation
|
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| Difficult to ensure cavity is filled. Hence can cause thermal bridging | No thermal bridging possibility | |
| Easy damp penetration | Resistant to damp penetration | |
| Can cause mould growth indoors | Does not cause mould indoors | |
