Notes from the wall.

Practical articles on EIFS, fiber cement and commercial exteriors — for general contractors, architects and owners.

An EIFS sample and a traditional stucco sample side by side on a jobsite table

October 31, 2026 · 5 min read

EIFS vs. traditional stucco: what’s the difference?

EIFS and traditional stucco can look alike once finished, but they are built differently. Here is how each one goes together and how to compare them.

A cutaway mockup of a rainscreen wall: sheathing, blue barrier, metal rails and wood-look fiber cement panels

October 31, 2026 · 4 min read

What is a rainscreen, and why do fiber cement panels use one?

A rainscreen is a ventilated, drained gap behind the cladding. Here is how it works, what it is made of and what to watch for on a fiber cement panel facade.

An estimator’s desk with elevation drawings, wall sections, a specifications binder and a laptop

October 31, 2026 · 4 min read

What to send your exterior subcontractor for an accurate bid

A checklist for general contractors: the drawings, specifications and scope notes an exterior subcontractor needs to price EIFS, siding, panels and stone accurately.

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