An Exterior Insulated Finish Systems (EIFS) Mechanic installs building systems that integrate a resinous exterior cladding with a continuous layer of insulation on the exterior of a building or structure. EIFS Mechanics are commonly referred to as stucco workers.
Job Related Skills, Interests and Values
- Reading and interpreting drawings, specifications, and manuals
- Preparing substrates; selecting and applying barriers, adhesive applications, and mechanical attachment; preparing and installing rigid insulation board
- Applying reinforcing mesh, base, and textured finish coats
- Selecting, setting up, maintaining, and operating various hand/power tools and equipment
- Maintaining good physical condition and working well with co-workers under deadlines
- Maintaining up-to-date knowledge regarding work-related materials and regulations
What Preparation and Training Do You Need?
- Grade 10 is the legal minimum, but high school diploma is usually required; co-op or technical courses are an advantage
- Completion of 3,600-hour apprenticeship, including on-the-job and in-school training
- Mandatory health and safety certificates are required prior to starting work
What's Your Future as a Exterior Insulated Finishing Systems Mechanic (455A)?
- Employed by contractors on construction or repair jobs; some may be union members
- Seasonal work; expect periods of unemployment due to inclement weather
- Steady demand for work
- Typical employers include residential developers, building construction firms, construction and roofing contractors, and independent contractors
Wage Rate
Apprentice wage increases with skill and experience. Fully qualified workers earn an average of $25.00 per hour.
Self-Rating
Exterior Insulated Finishing Systems (EIFS) Mechanic (455A)
| Ask Yourself: | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|
| Do you have good hand-eye coordination, and enjoy working with different types of hand tools? | ||
| Do you have good reading, writing, mathematical, physics, measuring and problem-solving skills? | ||
| Are you able to read blueprints and measurements accurately? | ||
| Are you able to follow Health & Safety guidelines? | ||
| Are you able to lift more than 50lbs? Are you able to stand or sit for long periods of time? | ||
| Are you comfortable working with hazardous materials? | ||
| Are you reliable, a self-starter and able to work with minimal supervision? Can you start and finish work on time? |
If you checked YES to the majority of these questions, a career as an Exterior Insulated Finishing Systems Mechanic (455A) may be for you!
You might want to look at these similar trades as well;
- Roofer
- Drywall Finisher and Plasterer
- Glazier
- Insulator
- Brick and Stone Mason
- Painter and Decorator
- Floor Covering Installer
Brick & Stone Masons prepare and lay bricks, concrete blocks, stone, and other masonry units to construct/repair structures like walls, patios, arches, fireplaces, and chimneys. They may also lay materials used in the construction of industrial furnaces, retorts, and boilers.
A Heat & Frost Insulator applies insulation materials in order to prevent the transmission of heat, cold, sound, and fire.
A Residential & Commercial Painter/Decorator (404C) applies decorative and protective finishes to various surfaces in residential and commercial settings. An Industrial Painter/Decorator (404D) works in commercial and industrial settings to prepare a variety of surfaces prior to applying protective finishes, including paint, high performance coatings, waterproofing, fireproofing, and specialty finishes.
Roofers install, repair, and replace roofing systems including conventional, inverted built-up, single-ply, and two-ply modified. They also perform damp, water, and weather-proofing, along with installing and repairing slate, tile, and shingles and resurfacing roofs.
Drywall Finishers and Plasterers apply finish, restore, and maintain plaster or similar materials on interior and exterior walls, ceilings, and building partitions to produce plain or decorative surfaces.
Sometimes referred to as Glaziers, Architectural Glass & Metal Technicians cut, fit, and install various types of glass (and sometimes plastic) in metal and wooden frames.
Floor Covering Installers plan, prepare, install, and repair various types of floor covering, including tile, resilient sheet goods, carpet, ceramic, and wood.