Here we are in 2026, with an unprecedented opportunity to surpass new builds across every market in our industry. The solutions for exterior wall claddings have never been clearer. EIFS is no longer an alternative—it is the standard.

Building codes now mandate air and moisture barriers along with continuous insulation. Owners demand curb appeal, construction efficiency, value, longevity, and stature. Architects define the look, feel, and design intent. General contractors are responsible for on-time delivery, staying on budget, and producing a finished product that is both visually compelling and performs as designed.

Photos: Raymond Group.

EIFS Specialty Finishes and Specialty Finish Systems: Design Without Compromise

EIFS manufacturers have elevated the category with specialty finishes and specialty finish systems capable of authentically replicating materials such as: 

• Stone 
• Metal 
• Brick 
• Limestone 
• Venetian plaster 
• Travertine and more

Created less than a decade ago, the CIFS/EIFS Woodgrain System has proven to be a powerful door-opener for both new construction and restoration projects. It delivers the authentic look of wood while enhancing curb appeal—without sacrificing the benefits of EIFS. 

Designed to compete directly with fiber cement siding and other wood cladding options, the Woodgrain System eliminates the need for a cement siding rainscreen system. By doing so, it removes fasteners that penetrate the fluid-applied air and moisture barrier and provides the added benefit of a total system warranty.  

Smarter Construction with CIFS/EIFS Brick

CIFS/EIFS Brick Systems reduce the framing costs required to support traditional masonry, consolidate the scope of work under the EIFS applicator, and create a seamless, uninterrupted construction schedule. These systems are architecturally flexible, cost-effective, and performance-driven. 

Photo: Raymond Group.

From “Disney Brick” to Authentic Masonry

Disney and Universal have long relied on specialty finishes to bring imaginative designs to life. The Imagineers envision it, and architects and contractors execute it. 

Earlier EIFS brick systems used coatings to create grout lines, with stencils adhered using makeshift adhesives. A sand, rilled or worm finish was troweled over the stencils to form the brick face. When the stencils were removed, the result was the clean, crisp look often referred to as “Disney Brick.” 

Today’s CIFS/EIFS Brick Systems represent a significant evolution. 

• Fluid-applied air and moisture barrier 
• Cementitious adhesive with drainage channels created using a notched trowel 
• Cementitious basecoat with mesh 
• UT Brick stencils that adhere directly to the EIFS wall using proven adhesive technology—no poster putty or spray adhesive required 
• Specialty brick finishes that create realistic texture, depth, and color variation 
• Grout and finish work that delivers a true masonry appearance and allows matching of existing brick 

 The result is an authentic, durable finish that is virtually indistinguishable from real brick. Most importantly, these systems fully integrate air barriers and continuous insulation—meeting today’s building codes, while providing a single-source warranty as part of the EIFS system. 

Town Square Las Vegas: A Benchmark for Specialty Finishes

When discussing specialty finishes, Town Square Las Vegas is the benchmark project I reference. If you’re ever in Las Vegas, it’s well worth a visit. 

The development seamlessly blends brick, stone, old-world stucco, Venetian plaster, limestone, terracotta, and ornate architectural elements, all executed using EIFS. 

Marnell Corrao Associates served as the general contractor, while RSM Design led the architecture, branding, and wayfinding for the open-air concept. Development Design Group acted as the lead design firm, creating a collage of architectural styles across 22 buildings and more than 70 storefront facades. Alan J. Mayer Architect collaborated on the design, drawing inspiration from cities such as Barcelona, Boston, New York, Paris and San Francisco.

The Raymond Group brought the vision to life as the applicator, delivering craftsmanship that is evident throughout the project and across Las Vegas. 

Photos: Raymond Group.

The Evolution of EIFS

Over the years, I’ve been involved in projects throughout Las Vegas, Arizona, Southern California, the Southeast, and the Caribbean—many incorporating specialty finishes with exceptional results. 

EIFS has evolved. Specialty finishes and specialty finish systems have raised the bar and in 2026, the choice has never been clearer. When enhancing a project, every box must be checked. The solution is clear: EIFS with specialty finishes and systems.