The purpose of this Fact Sheet is to provide advice as to the processes required to be undertaken when external wall cladding products and/or cladding systems which are not DtS building solutions, and are proposed to be incorporated into the design of a building.

EIFS (External Insulation Finishing Systems) are a fibreglass reinforced, acrylic modified, render system over a lightweight substrate of polystyrene panels. The System is becoming a regular substitute for brick in all facets of construction in commercial and residential projects.

The most comprehensive reference manual for installing MasterWall EIFS has just become better. The latest version includes detailed diagrams for applying our EIFS in virtually any situation.

MasterWall have completed and passed cyclonic testing of the MasterWall System, achieving a C3 cyclonic rating which encompasses around 99% of home in cyclone affected areas. The MasterWall System is now a perfect candidate for projects in places like Queensland and Broom WA, where the effects of weather and environment require a high performance solution.

PRACTICA MMC recently launched it's latest range of external cladding systems - the MasterWall K-Series which include products sourced from Kingspan, Europe's leading high performance insulation manufacturer. Similar to the MasterWall System used in residential developments, the K-Series has been designed as a total solution for commercial projects and customers in the residential market seeking the highest thermal and fire performance.

MasterWall once again proves to be the superior choice when it comes to external polystyrene cladding by becoming the preferred system for Australand's developments.

As we experience a distinct move away from traditional building materials and methods, we begin to experience new challenges and problems that arise such as water-proofing, arguably the biggest threat to modern homes today.

The building of homes incorporating a modern parapet design with timber frame and airtight lightweight materials such as External Insulation Finish Systems (e.g. polystyrene cladding) are a good example of the dangers that are created when poor building practices are used. 

Many builders are embracing the use of lightweight polystyrene cladding. Why wouldn’t they – its quick and easy to install, cheaper than other cladding materials, looks great, provides excellent thermal properties and addresses the need for a weatherproof façade. However a decision to purchase a particular type of polystyrene cladding system is often being based on incorrect and misleading information from renderers. 

MasterWall Specification, Installation and Construction Manuals are now available on Archipedia, the Online Architectural Library.

Seeking the MasterWall Building Commission Certificate of Accreditation? Follow this link.

The MasterWall External Wall Cladding System is the only BCA compliant poly system nationally. Read the Building Commission article and ask yourself; Should you be switching to a compliant system like MasterWall?

Get all the facts before you select your EIFS supplier. This most comprehensive Technical Paper on EIFS discusses the current status of EIFS and its compliance to Australian Building Regulations. The evolution of EIF Systems in Australia is beginning to replicate international trends and a highly regulated EIFS industry is imminent. Important and relevant information that every Australian builder, renderer, owner builder or architect needs to know.

MasterWall EIFS accessories have been sourced from the best of EIFS products around the world. These products have been proven and tested over time to perform at their optimum when used in a barrier EIF System. The latest addition to this range of superior EIFS accessories have been summarised here.

International studies have shown that Polystyrenes EIF Systems are rated more thermally efficient than other wall systems and leave a smaller carbon footprint than other commonly used claddings.

From design advice to estimation and accredited installers, MasterWall EIFS delivers advantages at every stage. Service and support from the initial stage till the end of a construction project is available when using Masterwall EIFS.

The MasterWall Innovative Polystyrene Cladding System can offer greater design flexibility than other cladding products. No other cladding product can claim such a wide range of benefits.

Masterwall EIFS offers optimal protection against the elements, energy efficiency, economy, design freedom of unlimited colours and textures, specialty finishes, integral shapes, curves details and easier maintenance. No other cladding product can claim such a wide range of benefits.

The MasterWall system has been assessed by CSIRO Appraisals as satisfying the performance requirements of P2.1, P2.2.2, P2.6.1 Volume 2 of the BCA. A copy of Technical Assessment 354 is available as a download via the link below:

As owners and builders become more conscious of the rising financial and environmental costs of energy (carbon emissions), thermal efficiency is becoming increasingly important. Victoria’s 5 Star standard for residential homes is an example of the initiatives that are driving the way we build and renovate.

As awareness of the benefits of polystyrene cladding, otherwise known as Exterior Insulation Finish Systems (EIFS), grows among owners, builders and architects the lack of compliance to key performance criteria within the BCA is becoming more apparent.

Many builders and owner builders don’t realise that in Victoria installation of an EIFS by a tradesperson – or anyone else – who does not have the appropriate Registered Builder Practitioner’s licence can affect the insurance cover.

Exterior Insulation Finish Systems – or EIFS – are here to stay, and grow a substantial share of the residential and commercial markets too, if overseas experience is a guide.

Meshed, primed and available as separate components or a complete system – even installed, MasterWall cladding offers a winning combination of quality and value – supported by an industry-leading guarantee.

The introduction of new 5-Star Energy Rating legislation in Victoria on July 1 has focused attention onto new-technology building products that can add considerably to the energy efficiency of a home.

New Victorian Government legislation introduced on July 1 this year requires that new dwellings in Victoria meet a minimum five-star energy efficiency rating.