News

U.S. Cement Manufacturers Launch Microsite to Showcase Early Progress in Realizing Carbon Neutrality. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, PCA America’s Cement Manufacturers, 3-29-23

Keeping stucco and EIFS secured to surfaces. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Albert Carillo, 3-29-23

Stucco is simple: sand, cement and lime. How can something so simple have so much controversy? Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Mark Fowler 2-9-23

The recently passed Inflation Reduction Act includes financial incentives for commercial and multi-family building owners to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Tom Harris, 2-15-23

The intent of this article, prepared by members of an AWCI subcommittee on lath and plaster, is to provide information on model code language specific to the requirement of a drainage system or drainage material behind exterior cement plaster cladding. Construction Dimensions, December 2022

New York City is set to initiate a major code change that will affect the design and installation of certain types of exterior wall assemblies. Construction Dimensions, Robert Grupe December 2022

Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Rob Knight, December 12, 2022

My Spidey sense is tingling. Note that this is an “opinion column. Work with me on this: In response to COVID, the CDC and others are now recommending a room air change rate of 4 to 6 air changes per hour. Building Science Insights, Joe Lstiburek, July 15, 2022

Construction input prices rose 2.3% in May compared to the previous month, according to an Associated Builders and Contractors analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Producer Price Index data released June 14. Nonresidential construction input prices also increased 2.3% for the month. Construction Dimensions Magazine, August 2022

Francesco (Frank) P. Morsilli, the founder of Dryvit Systems, Inc., died May 28 at his retirement home in Naples, Fla. Morsilli introduced exterior insulation and finish systems to North America in 1969. Construction Dimensions Magazine, August 2022

As architects continue to lean into learning and mastering the latest technologies, let us not forget the foundational, fundamental skills that are still expected by clients. Building Design + Construction, RS&H National Design Director Philip Robbie April 26, 2022

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Air and WRB, Waterproofing Membrane, Drainable Wraps, Barrier Systems, Continuous Insulation, Self-Adhering Waterproof Membrane, Water Proofing & Ventilation Mats. Walls and Ceilings Magazine July 27, 2022

An outline of the five mineral binders used in plasters/ mortars. Walls and Ceilings, Patrick Webb July 27. 2022
EXCELLENT ARTICLE!

A perm is simply a unit of measure for the amount of water vapor that will pass through a given area of a
material over a period of time…Laverne Dalgleish, ABAA

Sealant compatibility with air barriers, moisture-resistive barriers and self-adhered modified bitumen wraps and flashings is most important to long-term adhesion. Chamberlin Roofing and Waterproofing, Ben T. Hixon CCA CCS Hixon Consultants, July 23, 2020

Prefabricated exterior walls are changing the game in construction by providing customized constructability solutions. Building Enclosure, Richard Martens, 1-12-22

Sto Corp. is empowering architects and designers with unprecedented creative freedom through recent advancements in its Sto Panel Technology® business. Building Enclosure 2-4-22

Builder shares a few helpful steps on how to create an envelope that will stand the test of time. Builder Magazine, Emily Newton October 21 2021

Prefabricated exterior walls are changing the game in construction by providing customized constructability solutions. Building Enclosure, Richard Martens January 12, 2022

Global Sustainability Initiatives Gain Momentum. Building Enclosure Magazine. Tom Savoy 9-8-21.

A conversation regarding compromised fireproofing during an inherent stage of application. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Tim Vellrath, June 4, 2021

We just stumbled upon this – Good Stuff.  Credit  AABA  2021

What is the Site Quality Assurance Program? Air Barrier Association of America

Finland – Based Company Develops Technique to Reduce Carbon Dioxide Emissions From Cement Production, Builder Magazine, Mary Salmonsen, October 15, 2021

My how time flies! The last time we addressed our handbook on Stucco in Residential Construction (3rd edition) was an errata in 2019. Well we have some news to share: We have been working on an update based on drainage requirements that will likely be implemented in the next code cycle. Stay tuned!

If you’re looking for a speedy construction process, quality control, design flexibility and cost-efficient option, panelized EIFS may be the right call for your next project. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Rick Bunting, July 23, 2021

Clark Dietrich is adding a new solution to help contractors and builders address moisture management and drainage in exterior wall assemblies with the introduction of E-Screen, a polypropylene entangled mesh rain screen drainage mat. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, August 3, 2021

Weather-resistant barriers can both protect a structure’s walls from air and water infiltration and keep moisture from accumulating in the wall systems. Building Enclosure, Michael Smalley, July 7 2021.

Want a stucco job done right? Follow these ten steps. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Bruce Bell, June 9, 2021

88% indicate difficulty in finding skilled workers; of those, 35% have turned down work because of it. Building Design and Construction. MARKET DATA |JUNE 17, 2021 |U.S. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Takeaways from the Air Barrier Symposium held at the Center for Architecture and Design, Philadelphia 2020. Bernardon, John Rock AIA, 2-10-20 

Wall assemblies should be designed and constructed for specific hygro-thermal regions, Building Science Corp., Joe Lstiburek, December 15, 2020

SIGNIFICANT POTENTIAL EXISTS IN THE ENERGY RETROFIT OF NORTH AMERICA’S BUILDINGS

Q: Can you explain the recent changes in the International Building Code regarding exterior cement plaster? Construction Dimensions, Robert Grupe, March 2021

The Better the understanding of stucco, the better the stucco installation. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, William Spilchen P.E., March 17, 2021

Control layers are not materials. Each control layer provides a different function in a building enclosure. Air Barrier Association of America, Laverne Dalgleish/ Brian Stroik, March 2021

One moisture transport mechanism that is often overlooked in building construction is capillarity or capillary suction. Building Science Corp., Joe Lstiburek, March 15, 2021

An Overview of how the Energy Crisis of the 70’s Helped Birth a Stronger Initiative Toward the Energy Efficient Building Movement. Walls and Ceilings, Scott Robinson, January 15, 2021

SBC Magazine. Originally published by the Journal of Light Construction. Christine Williamson, August 27, 2020

Restraints include high upfront cost, and lack of universal definition and approaches. Building Design + Construction. Codes and Standards, Peter Fabris, January 11, 2021

Non-Residential Building Spending will drop 5.7%, Bounce Back in 2022. Building Design +Construction, Market Data, January 19, 2021

A Break-down of Moroccan-Like Plaster Tailored for the U.S. Market. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Patrick Webb 12-7-2020

Webinar by Walls and Ceilings Magazine. John Wyatt Editor for W&C/ Mark Fowler Stucco Manufacturers Association. 2020

Minnesota (#9), the Midwest’s leader, continues to report strong results from utility-run programs that help customers save energy. Building Enclosure 12-16-20

The new home of the Minnesota United soccer club wins a Silver Award in BD+C’s 2020 Building Team Awards. Building Design and Construction, Building Team Awards, David Malone, November 2020

Overcladding is one method that can be implemented to renew or upgrade the exterior façade while allowing the building to remain in full operation. Building Enclosure, Michael Chafetz and Douglas Pac, August 2020 

Academics Don’t Always Understand That The Country Needs Skilled Labor—And That A Computer Won’t Fill That Gap. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Mark Fowler October 2020

Although the most popular siding in each region varies, stucco was used the most on new builds last year. BUILDER October 2020

SMA will offer online video training and certification to stucco installers. Take a glimpse at our introduction to the upcoming 7-part training modules. Stucco Manufacturers Association 9-2020

Investing in high-performance construction strategies may come at a premium as you learn the specifics of green design, but many of the costs can be recouped. NAHB Best in America Living, 8-2020

Why choose EIFS over metal cladding options? Insulation, installation, drainage and durability. EIFS Industry Members Association

From performance to overall environmental impact, EIFS continues to provide cladding qualities that competitors just can’t match. EIFS Industry members Association

EIFS and stucco couldn’t be more different, starting from the most basic level to the final, completed building system. EIFS Industry Members Association

Despite a recovery in construction activity, firms are still reporting a high rate of project cancellations and delays related to supply chain issues and labor shortages. Vincent Salandro, Builder June 2020

Q: What is air leakage testing on exterior walls?? Robert Grupe, Construction Dimensions Magazine, July 2020

Tadelakt Is The Plaster Of Marrakech And In Recent Years Its Moroccan Aesthetic Has Fascinated The Western Design World. Patrick Webb, Walls and Ceilings Magazine June 2020

It should be pondered that EIFS is not the natural “Go-To” preference to meet the new code requirements, as a continuous insulation exterior cladding, Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Albert Carillo, April 2020

The 2021 ICC family of codes (energy and building codes) will see significant changes made to the Portland Cement Stucco water-resistive barrier (WRB) provisions. SBC Magazine/ Jay Crandell P.E./ March 2020

Gains in lighting and space heating efficiency have decreased energy intensity in commercial buildings, but demand in other areas is driving increased commercial energy use overall.

What could be better than a high-performance coating for a building enclosure? How about a finish or coating system that delivers responsiveness and functionality for exterior surfaces over the life of the building? Building Enclosure/ Karine Galla/ March 2020

Many open or temporarily closed hotels have already begun or are in the planning stages of renovating and repositioning their assets while occupancy is low or non-existent. Building Design and Construction/ Market Data/ April 30, 2020

Identifying the Proper Choice for Applications, Building Enclosure, Jason Peace, November 2019

Amid the Covid-19 pandemic the EIFS Industry Members Association has sent a letter to the Governors of Maryland and New York requesting their action to label businesses in the construction industry as “essential businesses.” EIMA Blog, March 31, 2020

Cost and availability of labor topped the list of problems builders faced in 2019, and is expected to return to the number one spot in 2020. NAHB/ SBC Magazine, February 7, 2020

StoPanel Delivers Improved Comfort with Minimal Disruption in Six-Story Office Building Restoration Project. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Michael Reese, 2-21-20.

This Type of Plaster Will Open Up Beautiful Design Opportunities While Supporting Contractors In Fulfilling A Fiduciary Responsibility Within Budget. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Patrick Webb, 2-21-20.

Stucco Opportunities Within the International Energy Conservation Code. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Chris Little, 2-21-20

With green building technology entering the mainstream and eco-home concepts spreading their roots faster than ever, the need for designing high-performance building envelopes is repeatedly highlighted. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Arijit Chakraborty, January 9, 2020

Nonresidential construction spending on buildings is projected to grow by just 1.5 percent through 2020. Building Enclosure January 28, 2020

Sto Corp., the innovative world leader in full system facades, prefabrication, air barriers, coatings, and restoration solutions, announced today that Jose R. Berlingeri has been named President and Chief Executive Officer, Sto Americas. Building Enclosure, January 28, 2020

The 2020 IIBEC Manual of Practice: Roofing, Waterproofing, and Exterior Wall Consulting and Quality Observation. Building Enclosure, February 3, 2020

MNLPB provided this article in it’s newsletter several years ago…It might be time to revisit. Originally published by: Betzwood Associates, May 1, 2012. Re-posted by SBC Magazine December 2019

From affordable student housing to high-infill offices, a rapidly accelerating building trend is the proliferation of zero energy buildings. US Department of Energy, Better Building December 3, 2019. Posted by SBC Magazine

How much do you know about stucco? Test your knowledge with this quiz from Walls & Ceilings. Posted 12-4-19

EIMA has developed a great educational package of information on (E)xterior (I)nsulation (F)inish (S)ystems. If you are new to EIFS, or simply want to brush up on the facts about the BEST Continuous Insulation system known, start here. EIMA Blog, September 2019

How Polyiso Provides more Benefits than Just Continuous Insulation. Building Enclosure, Tom Robertson November 8, 2019

Choose the right product and install it well, because if you’re not keeping water out, nothing else matters. Fine Home Building, Brian Pontolilo, September 2019

Sto Corp. introduces StoTherm® ci Mineral, the only U.S. decorative and protective high-performance exterior wall system with the unique advantages of mineral wool. AWCI E-Media, September 2019

NFPA 285 and its impact on the modern wall. Walls and Ceiling Magazine, Mike Griffin and Jeffrey Quill. September 2, 2019

This Errata brings Stucco in Residential Construction 2007 up to date with references in accordance with the current 2015 Minnesota Residential Code. To access go to our reference library and click on the “stucco” folder in the banner heading. Posted 8-19-19

With as many ways as there are to construct a wall system, there are an equal number of ways to try to keep that wall dry. Building Enclosure, Bijan Mansouri. Posted 8-16-19

The International Code Council goes to court over free access to building codes. The Architect’s Newspaper, Bill Millard, July 9, 2019. Posted here on 7-30-19

I’ve been wanting to write this column for years. The topic has been a burr under my saddle, but I needed to base the column on proof, not speculation. Ask the Builder, The Spokesman-Review, Tim Carter, July 20, 2019. Posted 7-30-19

Coming in Fall 2019, the SMA will offer online video training and certification to stucco installers. Take a glimpse at our introduction to the upcoming 7-part training modules:
Posted 7-30-19

The Gypsum Association (GA) is pleased to announce the complete redesign of its website. Posted 7-12-19

Crack resistance of portland cement plaster (stucco) can be improved by adding a cementitious mesh reinforced base coat over the brown coat. This document provides language that can be added to your stucco specification and can be found in our reference library by clicking on the “stucco” folder. Posted 7-12-19

New guide from the EIFS Industry Members Association extolling the benefits of EIFS and how simple modification can improve it’s impact resistance dramatically. Posted 6-22-19

H.B. 2439 restricts local governments from mandating the use of only specific products, and it would allow the use of products and materials currently permitted in current building codes. Posted 6-21-19

CLICK ON THE “CONTINUOUS INSULATION OR STUCCO” FOLDER IN OUR REFERENCE LIBRARY TO ACCESS. Posted 6-21-19

Q: Can you explain to me what a rainscreen is? Posted 5-27-19

NATIONAL OVERVIEW: The single-family home market is only one market for stucco cladding, but an important and dominant one. Posted 5-27-19

Pre-fabrication is Growing. Posted 5/27/19

So does the air control layer go on the outside or the inside?… You’ve got to ask yourself one question: Do I feel lucky? Well, do you, punk?

These construction pitfalls lead to callbacks and long-term problems. Here’s how to avoid building defects on the jobsite.
BUILDER, Don Neff, February 2019. Posted April 2019.

UPDATED FOR 2019!! Posted April 20. Go to our reference library and click on “stucco.” Title will show up in the publication titles displayed.

An underestimated cladding system that’s begging for the limelight. Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Scott Robinson, March 2019

Newsletter of the EIFS Industry Members Association. January/ February 2019

ASTM C1063 is the Standard Specification for Installation of Lathing and Furring to Receive Interior and Exterior Portland Cement-Based Plaster. Currently the Minnesota Building Code recognizes ASTM C1063 – 08, so this new version does not apply, it doesn’t however mean you shouldn’t be aware of changes.

Our model EIFS with Drainage Specification has been updated for 2019! Find it by going to our library and clicking on the “EIFS” tab.

Take it off, take it all off. These words are typically not heard on a construction site, but increasingly, we hear this phrase coming out of the mouths of our industry experts. Walls and Ceilings magazine, Albert Carillo 2-1-19

Changes of plane and intersections present moisture-management challenges. Journal of Light Construction, Tyler LeClear Vachta, John Koester, November 2018

Need details? This is the place to find them. Northwest Wall and Ceiling Bureau Publication

“If you aren’t expecting it, Allianz Field looks like an alien mother ship strategically landed at an area known as ‘Midway’ between Minneapolis and St. Paul.” – Walls and Ceilings Magazine, Steve Pedracine, MN Lath & Plaster Bureau, October 2018

If it’s possible to build a fireproof house, Robert Balzebre is convinced his stunning three-story personal sanctuary perched in the Hollywood Hills would qualify. USA Today, Chris Woodyard, August 2018

“Everyone is running around sealing the outside of buildings and the term “air barrier” has gone from obscurity to buzz word in less than a decade. But if you look at the physics we are sealing the wrong walls…” Building Science Corp., Joe Lstiburek, December 18, 2018

“Stucco doesn’t crack; breaking is a common misconception about a well-used coating.” – Walls and Ceilings Magazine, January 6, 2019

“Westshore Tampa is an ever-growing business district which includes Tampa International Airport”… EIMA Blog, December 27, 2018

“Stucco can take any color and adapt to any shape, from flat boxes to doubly curved fantasias” – Architizer, December 2018

Daunting challenges necessitate a mix of old and new plastering methods to bring back “The Star of the North”

Direct (applied) Exterior Finish System. Go to the Reference Library and look under “Specialty.”

Windows and doors are “holes” in the “sheet-like walls” of buildings. Hence the term “punched openings”.

EIFS Industry Members Association has published a new “Guide to EIFS with Drainage Detailing” .

Fire and Risk Management – April 6, 2018

EIFS Industry Members Association releases new video

Mulcahy Nickolaus receives the AWCI Excellence in Construction Quality Award for their plaster repair work on the Minnesota State Capitol.

The battle to control water entry is won at building joints and corners.

Steven Pedracine receives award from EIFS Industry Members Association.

The California Missions are not only state history made corporeal, but also one of the major reasons stucco is so common in the Southwest.

Walter Payton does permeance