Details, Details, Details: Driveways and Slabs

In my last entry I talked about Stucco or EIFS being installed on or below grade.  Today I am going to discuss whether or not Stucco or EIFS should be installed on or below concrete slabs.

Similar to the reasons that Stucco or EIFS should not be installed at or below grade, both cladding systems should not be installed on or below concrete slabs.  When Stucco or EIFS is installed directly on the slabs, moisture can wick up the wall as described in the previous entry (Details, Details, Details: Stucco or EIFS Below Grade), along with provide a path for termites or other insects to enter the wall cavity.

Another reason that Stucco or EIFS should not be installed directly on concrete slabs is that depending on soil conditions, slabs can heave (move up) or sink (move down) over time.  This can cause significant damage to the cladding systems, especially if the slabs are heaving.

To avoid potential damage to the Stucco or EIFS, both should terminate a minimum 2″ above all hard surfaces.  There are several remediation techniques that can be used to create the proper clearance between slabs and Stucco or EIFS.  This should be completed by a qualified Stucco or EIFS contractor.