Cement Board Stucco (DEFS or DAFS)

  The last category of stucco types that we will address is called "Direct Applied" stucco, which is a hybrid version of concrete-based stucco and EIFS. The same materials used in an EIFS installation are used in a direct applied stucco wall, with exception of the styrofoam which is replaced with a different substrate.

  The substrate, which is the base on which the stucco is applied to, can be other materials that the stucco is compatible with. For example, in the photo above, a cement board has been attached to the wall, but it can also be attached to OSB, plywood, as well as ICF block applications. The same cement used to apply EIFS would be applied on to the cement board, and then the same textured finish would be applied on top of the cement layer.

  Other substrates used in stucco include gypsum, dense glass, concrete block, poured concrete walls, brick, and a yellow fiberglass reinforced foam panel. The best way to tell if a particular building has a direct applied stucco system is to remove the cover from an external electrical outlet and look at the materials that the box is surrounded by.