External thermal insulation composite systems, or ETICS for short, are multi-layer systems used to insulate the external wall of a building. ETICS generally consist of insulation boards bonded to the substrate (masonry or concrete wall) using adhesive mortar and, if required, additionally mechanically fixed (using anchors, profiles etc.) and a rendering system comprised of a reinforced base coat and a decorative finishing coat.

From the design point of view, ETICS are differentiated according to the methods of fixing:

Bonded ETICS:

ETICS where the connection to the substrate is ensured by bonding. They may or may not include supplementary mechanical fixings.

• Purely bonded ETICS: ETICS may be fully bonded (over the entire surface) or partially bonded in strips and/or dabs.
• Bonded ETICS with supplementary mechanical fixings: The load is totally distributed by the bonding layer. The mechanical fixings are used primarily to provide stability until the adhesive has dried and act as a temporary connection to avoid the risk of detachment. They can also provide stability in case of fire.

Mechanically fixed ETICS:

ETICS where the connection to the substrate is ensured by mechanical fixings. They may or may not include supplementary bonding.

• Mechanically fixed ETICS with supplementary adhesive : The load is totally distributed by the mechanical fixings. The adhesive is used primarily to ensure the flatness of the installed ETICS.
• Purely mechanically fixed ETICS: The ETICS are secured to the wall by mechanical fixings only.  

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