“Geometrically defined drainage cavity” (GDDC) refers to the channels, grooves or profiles cut into the insulation backing of an EIFS panel for the purpose of providing a way for water that gets behind the system to drain out. The channels, grooves or profiles of one panel need to connect to the channels, grooves or profiles of adjacent panels in order for drainage to occur consistently and uniformly across the entire EIFS. While the size of a channel, groove or profile can be verified by inspecting a single panel, the intent of Sentence 9.27.14.1.(1) is that the required drainage capacity be achieved across the entire system.
Additional information on the design and installation of EIFS can be found in
- the EIFS Practice Manual published by the EIFS Council of Canada, and
- the manufacturer’s literature.
