September 2025 | Volume 16, Issue 8

EIMA Board and Working Groups Advance Key Industry Initiatives in Summer Meetings

EIMA’s Board of Directors and Working Groups convened virtually this summer to advance key initiatives and industry priorities. Discussions included updates from the Education and Workforce Development group on promoting the EIFSmart Contractor Program, and the creation of an industry-wide quality assurance standard. The Promotion Working Group reviewed marketing programs such as The EIFS Effect case studies, the call for entries for the 2025 EIFS Excellence Awards, and a new communications strategy targeting architects.

Advocacy groups addressed both technical and policy matters. The Technical & Research Working Group discussed building code developments, ANSI standards revisions, and the industry-wide PCR/LCA/EPD project, which officially launched in August. The Federal, State, and Local Advocacy group examined regulatory challenges at multiple levels, outreach to federal lawmakers, and strategies for educating policymakers about EIFS.

During its early September meeting, the Board reviewed EIMA financials, considered operational updates, and explored funding approaches for targeted marketing and advocacy programs. Planning is underway for the Fall Board and Working Groups Conference, November 18–19, 2025 in Denver, and the 2026 Annual Meeting, March 25–27 in Washington, DC.

Have you registered yet for the EIMA Fall Board and Working Groups Conference taking place November 18–19 at the Westin Denver International Airport in Denver, CO? This two-day event will bring together EIMA members for a series of working group meetings, including Advocacy, Promotion, and Education & Workforce Development, as well as the Board of Directors meeting. The conference also features valuable networking opportunities, including a dinner the evening of November 18. Don’t miss this chance to engage with industry leaders and help shape the future of EIFS.

The Home Depot and its Subsidiary SRS Distribution Complete Acquisition of Gypsum Management and Supply

The Home Depot announced that it has completed the acquisition of Gypsum Management and Supply, Inc. (GMS) through its specialty trade distribution subsidiary, SRS Distribution Inc. (SRS), for a total enterprise value (including net debt) of approximately $5.5 billion. GMS is one of the leading distributors of specialty building products including drywall, ceilings, steel framing and other complementary products related to remodeling and construction projects in residential and commercial end markets.

The agreement to acquire GMS was previously announced on June 30, 2025.

"The addition of GMS further enhances SRS's position as a leading multi-category building materials distributor, bringing differentiated capabilities, product categories and customer relationships that are highly complementary to SRS's business today," said Ted Decker, chair, president and CEO of The Home Depot.

2025 EIFS Excellence Awards Entries are Due November 1: Tips on Strengthening Your Submission

EIMA is now accepting submissions for the 2025 EIFS Excellence Awards, the premier recognition program celebrating outstanding EIFS projects across a range of building categories in North America. Open exclusively to EIMA members, this program showcases the innovation, craftsmanship, and versatility of EIFS in today’s architecture.

To give your project the best chance at recognition, it’s important to align your entry with the judging criteria while presenting a clear, compelling story. To help strengthen your submission and present your project in the best possible light, consider the following:

Nail the Aesthetic Appeal - Submit professional photos that capture beauty shots and detailed craftsmanship.
Showcase Innovation & Creativity - Provide a clear explanation of the architectural vision and how EIFS supported it.
Capitalize on Challenges & Resolutions - Demonstrate why EIFS was the right choice and how it overcame obstacles.
Detail Functionality & Performance - Include measurable results (energy efficiency, thermal performance, durability).

The bottom line is a winning EIFS Excellence Awards submission blends strong visuals, clear performance data, and a thoughtful narrative. By showing how EIFS elevated your project—both aesthetically and functionally—you’ll make your entry stand out to the judges. Click on the link below for more details on strengthening your submission.

EIMA Analysis Highlights Legacy Cladding Use — and Opportunities for EIFS

EIMA staff recently researched where the U.S. government tracks exterior cladding materials on commercial and residential buildings. It may surprising to know that the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the statistical arm of the Department of Energy, provides the most comprehensive data through its Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey (CBECS) and Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS).

The latest data shows brick, stone, or stucco lead commercial buildings at 42%, while siding leads residential units at 37%, followed by brick at 27%. Because nearly half of commercial buildings and most housing stock were built before 1980, the cladding mix reflects legacy materials rather than today’s high-performing, energy-efficient options. The good news is with EIFS delivering performance, versatility, and design flexibility, the system is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of both new construction and renovations.

To read more about EIMA's analysis, click on the links below.

Selected Exterior Cladding Highlights - Commercial

Selected Exterior Cladding Highlights - Residential

EIFS TechLine: EIMA’s Monthly Technical Bulletin

The EIMA Technical and Research Working Group presents the next edition of the EIFS TechLine, a monthly technical bulletin series authored by EIMA members that delivers clear, practical guidance on key technical topics in the Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) industry.

This issue is about Sealants and their Use with EIFS and EIFS with Drainage Clad Wall Assemblies. EIFS, like many exterior wall coverings, commonly transition to a dissimilar material, an adjacent component (such as a window or door), and may also accommodate building movement via expansion joints. These transitions are often addressed using elastomeric sealants. Sealants must present a level of function, performance, durability, and aesthetic appeal that is compatible with both the design intent and the intended service life of the overall structure.

EIFS TechLine represents EIMA’s ongoing commitment to industry leadership, education, and quality. We invite all members and industry partners to explore this edition and look forward to sharing future bulletins on additional technical topics.

EIFS TechLine

Discover the Latest "EIFS Effect" Case Studies

The EIFS Effect case study series highlights innovative projects across North America that showcase the performance, design versatility, and sustainability of Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS). These real-world examples demonstrate how EIFS is helping architects and builders meet modern design and energy goals. Explore the latest featured projects below

One 7 at Belleview Station

BLOK Mountain Retreat