You should consider EIFS alternatives!
Are you looking to remodel the siding for your commercial building? Tired of the issues of EIFS and traditional Stucco? Are you looking for siding alternatives?
There are two popular choices for EIFS alternatives. These two choices are fiber cement and STUCCO CLAD. We will be laying out the information for both so you can compare and make the most informed decision for your project.
Fiber Cement Siding vs. Stucco Clad
Fiber Cement Siding is typically made from Portland cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers but do vary by manufacturer. It is a siding material that is used as a replacement for EIFS. STUCCO CLAD on the other hand is made with a synthetic high-density board and textured into architectural panels.
Both Fiber Cement and STUCCO CLAD can be installed in all weather and temperature conditions, however, STUCCO CLAD is more lightweight while Fiber Cement is heavier. It takes only a general contractor/carpenter to install STUCCO CLAD while you have to get a specialized contractor and equipment to properly install fiber cement.
STUCCO CLAD and Fiber Cement are both insect resistant, however only Fiber Cement is fire resistant. Similarly both STUCCO CLAD and Fiber Cement have high durability but Fiber Cement has a slight edge in durability. In terms of insulation STUCCO CLAD has the edge with an R-Value of 0.94 while Fiber Cement has an R-Value of 0.15. Finally, both Fiber Cement and STUCCO CLAD have a wider range of customization options to fit whatever designs you like.
Fiber Cement: PRO's & CON's
Pros
- Durable
- Not weather dependent to install
- Insect Resistant
- Wide Customization
Cons
- Heavy Material
- Higher Cost
- Specialized equipment to install
- Difficult to Install
- High Maintenance
STUCCO CLAD: PRO's & CON's
Pros
- Lightweight
- Not weather dependent to install
- Durable
- Higher Insulation Value than Fiber Cement
- Faster & Easier Installation
- Can be installed by a General Contractor
- Personal Customization
Cons
- Not Fireproof
- Lower Insulation Rate than EIFS
In short, the main selling point of Fiber Cement is its durability, while STUCCO CLAD’s main selling point is its ease of installation, lower cost and better insulation.
Depending on your situation, STUCCO Clad may be the best choice for your project. If you have any questions about Stucco Clad or want more information, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 314-524-2040 or contact us via our website!
