A common misconception is that cutting corners on the job site somehow helps reduce costs. This practice is called many things, but perhaps is most commonly referred to as “value” engineering. I’ll concede that upfront and short-term cost savings may be realized when inferior materials are substituted, but at whose long term expense? The building owner, the industry, and perhaps your reputation!
Those who have been in the industry long enough know full well what can happen when corners are cut on the exterior building envelope. Remember that little EIFS issue back in the 80’s and 90’s? Failures were rarely due to faulty material, rather they were a result from trying to cut corners: foam direct applied to plywood sheathing with no weather barrier, inadequate or no flashing used around doors and windows, lack of proper training, etc. Though the industry survived it was badly bruised and according to some it is still rebuilding its reputation. Manufacturers, distributors, and contractors collectively learned from mistakes, and the EIFS industry is now roaring back due to continuous insulation requirements in the energy codes.