EIFS on CMU in Florida?
I’m new to Florida where most exterior walls are CMU. I thought EIFS would help keep heat out while the interior would stay cool from CMU’s thermal lag.
I have heard a lot of negative comments about EIFS here and many say it can’t be used in Florida due to the humidity and rainy season. Few are familiar with drainable EIFS which I thought would help with the moisture/mold concerns people have. There are drainable impact EIFS products available so hurricanes are not a problem.
Typically builders put insulation inside the CMU walls which negates the benefit of CMU’s thermal lag although it still does a decent job of insulating.
Is EIFS a bad idea in Florida or do I need to do some educating?
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My understanding the issue with EIFS in the US was due to improper detailing and lack of WRB under the foam.
I'm in much colder climate with hot and muggy summer, EIFS is pretty common here and works quite well. I can't comment on how well it will work in a mostly cooling climate but I can't see any major issues as long as it is detailed well (ie proper flashing around windows/doors and WRB over the block).
Thanks! That's what I thought.