We are the experts in Stucco/Dryvit/EIFS on the North Shore and Chicago since 1974.

What is Stucco?

Stucco is a type of finishing plaster that is commonly used on the exterior of buildings, and has been used in construction for centuries in various forms. Over the last twenty years, millions of single family homes were built using stucco as the exterior finish. Stucco looks great, is easy to install, has great energy-saving features and can be made to look like stone and other masonry finishes, as well as the more contemporary EIFS look.

What is EIFS?

EIFS stands for Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems. The product is also called synthetic stucco, and refers to a multi-layered exterior finish that’s been used in European construction since shortly after World War II, when contractors found it to be a good repair choice for buildings damaged during the war. The majority of repairs to European buildings were to structures constructed of stone, concrete, brick, or other similar, durable materials.

What had worked well as an exterior shell for concrete and stone became a problem when used on wood. Moisture related problems lead to individual and class action lawsuits by consumers. Since then the installation methods have changed by adding the installation of a “drainage mat”. This allows the release of moisture, eliminating the problems found with older installations. Additionally, another problem with EIFS is bird holes. Woodpeckers and other birds sometimes make holes in the softer surface to nest.

Synthetic Stucco vs. Traditional Stucco

• Synthetic stucco is soft and sounds hollow when tapped.
• Traditional stucco is hard and brittle, and sounds solid when tapped.

Remember to call Castino Stucco early Spring to book your estimate. We book up really fast in The Spring and Summer season. Check out our Stucco portfolio to see the beautiful job we can do for you!