According to the definitions of the International Building Code and ASTM International, an Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS) is a nonload bearing, exterior wall cladding system that consists of an insulation board attached either adhesively or mechanically, or both, to the substrate; an integrally reinforced base coat; and a textured protective finish coat. In Europe, systems similar to EIFS are known as External Wall Insulation System (EWIS) and External Thermal Insulation Cladding System (ETICS).

The popularity of EIFS comes from its insulating qualities to reduce thermal loads on the exterior building wall and the light weight, low cost, and the ability of the system to be sculpted into shapes and patterns to achieve different aesthetic effects.

The mortar required by the EIFS/ETICS should have excellent adhesion and flexibility under various outdoor climate conditions. Mikazone™ cellulose ether are widely used for adhesive mortars and the embedding mortars in EIFS/ETICS.