EIFS is for the birds.
EXTRA ! BIRD INFESTATION IN EIFS OUT OF CONTROL !
EIFS house in Arlington, Virginia becomes giant bird nest for sparrows.
Sparrow infestation in McLean, Virginia.
Sparrows make a round hole about an inch and a half in diameter. Their favorite nesting place are foam details on EIFS and foam bands on one coat synthetic "stucco". These bird holes can be seen frequently on EIFS houses near wooded areas.
EIFS houses in Vienna, Virginia are eaten up with bird holes.
Vertical expansion joints can cause water funnels
I got this from Carl Brown's (Mr. Bad Stucco) great site. Note how vertical expansion joints over can cause water funnels. The tendency is to put these joints over windows to prevent to likelihood of cracks that occur over window and door openings. These joints can cause more harm than good.
Notice here that is is no vapor barrier behind the trim, as well as no sill. The flat 1 x 4 is level on top, causing water to run behind the window
These vertical joints are an expressway to carry water behind brick water tables, concrete, etc.