The application of EIFS varies in that there two approved methods of review by the code The IBC contains
prescriptive methods on the use/application of EIFS (IBC section 2603). The ICC ES reports vary from the IBC in
certain areas, but are still approved if applied according to their testing. The ES reports are geared towards
specific applications while the IBC is a general application.
With this in mind I offer the following. If the ICC ES report is being applied the assembly is required to comply with
all aspects. Any deviation from the ES report will require compliance with the prescriptive methods of the IBC. One
of the elements required for the installation of EIFS per the IBC is a water-resistive barrier, unless an exemption is
give by section 2603. These exceptions are also noted in the special inspections program, section 1704.12.
In section 1402 and section 1404.2 you will find the definition and minimum requirements of a water resistive barrier.
In chapter two of the IBC you will find the definition of a vapor retarder and the testing requirements. Based on the
ASTM standards you will find that the testing for each use differs. In reading ASTM E96 you will find that a vapor
retarder tested and approved in accordance with this standard will not necessarily pass the testing for a water
resistive barrier. The testing for a water-resistive barrier is dependent on the material. For example section 1404.2
states that if applying No. 15 asphalt felt testing shall be in accordance with ASTM D 226 for type I felt. If the
proposed proposed vapor retarder has also been tested and approved as a water-resistant barrier only then will the
exception under 1704.12 be applied. Please check the manufacturer's specifications and testing data to verify.

Here is an example of an ES report for application use:

The file is large so I have a link: Criteria List

This link is of a specific manufacturer:

http://www.icc-es.org/reports/pdf_fi...S/ESR-1547.pdf. The report states the type of wall system and building it can be applied.

I have a report for a job that I had to stop that was not current with the ICC. I will include that in another post as soon as I find it tonight.

Steve