What type of insulation is commonly associated with EIFS?

The correct answer is polystyrene insulation, which is commonly used in Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS). EIFS is a cladding system that provides exterior walls with an insulated, water-resistant surface and a finished surface that can be textured or painted. Polystyrene is favored in this application due to its excellent insulating properties, light weight, and resistance to moisture.

Polystyrene insulation comes in two forms: expanded and extruded, both of which provide effective thermal resistance. When used in EIFS, this type of insulation contributes significantly to energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer through the walls, keeping spaces warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

In contrast, other types of insulation, such as fiberglass and cellulose, are not typically used in conjunction with EIFS. Fiberglass batts or rolls are generally installed within the framing of walls rather than on the exterior, while cellulose is more commonly used in attic spaces or wall cavities but does not provide the continuous insulation layer that EIFS requires. Mineral wool, while it has some applications in exterior wall construction, is not the standard choice associated specifically with EIFS systems as polystyrene is.