05/04

NWCB Technical Document

EXTERIOR SYSTEMS Portland Cement Plaster Over Foam
600-615

Stucco (Portland cement plaster) can be applied over foam substrates, the Portland Cement Association states
“Portland cement plaster bonds tenaciously to most insulation”. While the stucco may bond to the foam, the NWCB
strongly recommends the use of a metal reinforcement (lath) over the foam. The NWCB has believes that the softer
and more flexible nature of foam combined with the relatively thin brittle outer shell of cement can lead to more
cracking than most building owners find acceptable. The NWCB recommends use of vertical Z furring with foam
insulation between the Z furring and install sheathing to provide a stable diaphragm for the stucco (see assembly A-9
from the Stucco Resource Guide on the reverse).
Another option that has had success in reducing cracks is to trowel a reinforcing fiberglass mesh (4 to 6 oz. per
square yard) into an EIFS basecoat type material over the brown coat of plaster, lapping the mesh 2 inches. The
final acrylic finish coat can be applied over this system. This adds a strong, yet flexible lamina layer that will practi-
cally eliminate cracking. This does add cost to a conventional plaster system. While the system will function without
the additional lamina, the NWCB has seen an increase in cracking over foam as compared to traditional stucco over
a solid wood or gypsum type sheathing.
• Other points to consider when installing stucco directly over foam:
• Deflection criteria of walls should be a minimum L/360
• Metal framing supporting the system must be a minimum 20 gauge, spaced a maximum 16 inches on center.
• Screws used to attach the lath shall penetrate the foam and have a full three threads exposed past framing
members.
• The weather-resistive barrier (paper) should be behind the foam. Cement will bond to foam and installing the
WRB over the foam will require the fastener to carry a cantilevered load of 10 to 12 lbs per sq. ft.
• The maximum thickness of foam should be 1 1/2 inches.

This technical document is to serve as a guideline and it is not intended for any specific construction projects. NWCB makes no express or implied warranty or guarantee of the
techniques, construction methods or materials identified herein.

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