External Insulation (EIFS) – Projects and Qualified Teams

External Thermal Insulation Composite Systems (ETICS) are the most common solution for energy upgrades of exterior walls – in new build and renovation alike. The system consists of adhesive, insulation board (EPS, mineral wool, in special cases wood fibre or phenolic resin), anchor fixings in the load-bearing substrate, reinforcement layer with glass-fibre mesh, primer, and mineral or organic topcoat. System-compliant processing (all components from a single manufacturer), fire class matching the building class, correct plinth detailing with plinth boards and waterproofing, and mineral-wool fire barriers above EPS insulation are essential. Example Germany: system approval under ETAG 004 / EAD, execution follows VOB/C DIN 18345 and the technical guidance of the EIFS industry association.

FAQ

How much does ETICS cost per m² as subcontracted work?

Which insulation for which application?

Which insulation thickness is standard?

Which fire classes apply?

What are the most common defects?

How long does ETICS on a single-family house take?

How much does ETICS cost per m² as subcontracted work?: Example Germany: EPS 14 cm with mineral topcoat 80–130 €/m² incl. material, mineral wool 14 cm 100–160 €/m², EPS 20 cm low-energy 110–170 €/m², special wood-fibre system 150–230 €/m². In Poland typically 30–40 % below German rates.
Which insulation for which application?: EPS: economical, easy to work with, residential standard up to building class 3. Mineral wool: non-combustible (A1), mandatory from class 4 (multi-storey), higher vapour permeability. Wood fibre: ecological, high thermal mass, higher cost. Phenolic resin: slim build-ups for tight wall depths.
Which insulation thickness is standard?: Example Germany: per GEG renovations U ≤ 0.24 W/(m²K), achieved with about 14 cm EPS. Low-energy 16–20 cm. KfW Efficiency 40 EE often 24–30 cm. With mineral wool 1–2 cm thicker for the same insulation effect due to higher lambda.
Which fire classes apply?: Example Germany: building class 1–3 (up to 7 m): EPS class B1 permitted with mineral-wool fire barriers every 2 storeys. Building class 4–5 (above 7 m): non-combustible A1 insulation (mineral wool) mandatory. Special and high-rise: A1 without exception.
What are the most common defects?: Algae and mould formation from too-smooth surfaces and condensation, cracks over board joints from incorrect layout around openings, visible board joints from inadequate reinforcement, missing fire barriers on EPS facades, plinth damage from missing waterproofing.
How long does ETICS on a single-family house take?: 200 m² of facade: bonding, anchoring, reinforcement, primer, topcoat: 12–18 working days for a three-person team plus drying time between layers. With scaffolding and weather protection: 3–4 weeks of hire. Weather-dependent (no application below 5 °C or in rain).

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