There are three types of EIFS. inspections, Phase 1, Phase 2, and Phase 3 inspections.

The type of invasive techniques employed by the inspection company are the determining factor in the categorization. Phase 1 inspections, being the least invasive, would only use visual observations of the wall surfaces and The Phase 3 inspection would employ techniques such as cutting into the wall surfaces and/or probing holes  

All the inspections follow the E.D.I. protocols and the E.I.M.A. guidelines for the inspection process. All inspectors are nationally certified and have completed the requirements and passed the examinations of the Exterior Design Institute. E.D.I. is the only certification agency in the United States for third party EIFS inspections of all synthetic stucco systems.

Phase 1 inspections are visually based and non invasive.

The building is visually inspected from all wall surfaces. The condition of the surface lamina, installation techniques of the wall system, caulking and flashing systems will all be individually inspected and evaluated. All windows, doors and other wall penetrations are inspected and tested. All accent moldings, wall penetrations, exterior attachments, and joints are inspected, tested, and recorded.

All moisture measurements are taken with Tramex moisture meters on the interior of the wall surfaces in high moisture reading areas and exterior wall surfaces of the building. Each measurement is documented. Where any moisture is detected, digital cameras are used to document the readings and conditions. The inspection of the building will be followed by a detailed written report and photographic evidence derived from the visual observations of the exterior finishing systems as well as the instrument readings of the wall surfaces. Normally, over 80 readings are taken at the wall surfaces and recorded. If an area of the residence is inaccessible, it will be noted in the report.

Phase 2 inspections will employ all the above techniques but will also use a Delmhorst probe so as to further evaluate those areas where there have been high moisture readings detected with the Tramex moisture meters.

The probe holes needed to test with the Delmhorst meter are 4" long and will be 1/4" diameter. The holes will be bored into the EIFS finish so as to test the substrate and thereby verify the impedance meter reading. The holes will be filled with a clear silicone caulking. Normally there are 30 to 50 holes bored into a house wall surface, (depending on the meter readings) in addition to the 80 moisture readings.

Phase 3 inspections combine all the above techniques as well as cutting out the wall areas where there were high readings detected with the two previously mentioned meters, and examining the substrate in the high moisture meter reading areas.

The cutting of the interior or the exterior will be accomplished as needed. The core sample will be evaluated and recorded. Like the Phase 1 and Phase 2 inspections, the written and photographic reports will be invalided in this report system.

The cost of the Inspections vary depending which phase type of inspection and the size of the building to be inspected. A Phase 1 inspection on an average size house, (2200 sq. ft., 2 story) with 80% EIFS finish system on the exterior will be in the $400.00 range. The same house with a Phase 2 inspection would be approximately $600.00. A Phase 3 inspection on a this house would be near $1,000.00.   There is no warranty implied as the the value, life expectancy, fitness for particular function, usefulness, or merchantability, and therefore, Finegan Inspection Services, Inc. assumes no liability as to the future condition of the EIFS system after the inspection.

All of the reports will detail the areas of the EIFS systems that are not in conformance with the accepted workmanlike installation techniques by the EIFS Industry Members Association, (EIMA). Right and left will be determined as one faces the front door from the exterior of the house. Our customers should not hesitate to call if there is anything we can assist them with in the future.

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