When it comes to stucco, many homeowners choose this type of siding to give their exterior a different look and keep out moisture, fire, and other hazards. However, stucco is not invincible.
Moisture, an annoying household problem, can pose a threat to plaster. If not caught in time, it -- or other plumbing damage -- can work its way into the stucco and destroy it.
Did you know that in the scenario where your stucco is damaged, you have two choices? You can repair or repair the plaster. The difference betweenstucco repairand the repair of stucco is also significant.
Unlike stucco repair, restoration requires more work. Read on below to see whatstucco repairis and when you need it.
What is it Restoration of stucco?
curiouswhat is stucco repair?
Restoration of stuccois a complex and effective way to repair entire walls. If you are thinkingstucco repairsounds pretty much like stucco repair, you could be wrong.Complete renovation of stuccogoes beyond stucco repair, it involves removing stucco from walls, repairing damage and reapplying it.
Plaster restoration revolves around completely re-plastering each exterior wall to address the issues that caused the damage. The main underlying problem of stucco damage requiring repair is moisture that has penetrated between the interior wall framing and the exterior stucco coating of the walls.
Restoration process of stucco
In short, onestucco repairthe process looks something like this:
- Removal of stucco: All wall coverings have been removed, along with all wires and nails. Then the walls are cleaned and prepared for further work.
- Removal of unusable plywood cladding: Damaged insulation and sheathing are completely removed.
- Mold removal and structural repairs: This step is reserved for removing mold and other structural damage caused by moisture.
- Removal of doors and windows: This step of the process is about removing every window and door in the walls. Window/door areas are where you can find the most obvious signs of water damage. After the flashing resets, the windows and doors will go back in.
- Installation of foil for the house: House packaging is a process of insulating windows, doors, pipes and stairs using luminous tape.
- Add home cladding:Stucco restoration contractorswill continue to put new siding on your home.
- i'm fishing: The team you choose to rehabilitate your stucco should take the time to clear the surrounding area of any debris created in the process.
Remediation vs repair: what's the difference
As we said,stucco repairsand stucco repair are not the same thing.Restoration of stuccois a healthy process that applies to the walls of the house as a whole, while repairing stucco only covers part of the area that has suffered damage. In other words, the repair is superficial, the rehabilitation is thorough.
The reason homeowners need remediation is because of deeper water damage. By performing restoration, you practically solve the underlying problems of stucco damage and ensure lasting healing.
Recovery is the process you go to when you want to fix the problem and prevent future damage.
Stucco repair on the other hand...
Stucco restoration is only used when the damage to the stucco is superficial. For example, if there are cracks but no visible mold or moisture damage, it is better to repair the plaster rather than rehabilitate it.
Stucco repair is a partial repair that only addresses visible damage in certain areas. With stucco repair you are actually concerned with the problem, not the cause, which is why stucco repair is much faster and easier than remediation.
Basically, stucco repair includes the following steps:
- Cut and remove stuccoonlyin the affected area;
- Removal and replacement of damaged wood behind stucco;
- Applying a new layer of stucco.
As you can see, the plaster repair process is much less complicated than the rehabilitation process, which is why it is cheaper thanstucco repair. Honestly, with major stucco problems,the cost of repairing the stuccoit should be the last thing on your mind.
Sometimes repairing the stucco doesn't completely solve the problem. Serious damage to stucco can only be repaired through restoration; if you don't and decide to repair the stucco, you run the risk of the damage exacerbating the problem and ultimately leading to additional costs in the future.
When should you repair the stucco?
While it may be difficult for homeowners to decide which approach to take, there are some signs that your stucco will benefit more from restoration than repair. We mentioned cracks as clear signs of stucco damage; these cracks can be small or large, in both cases there is something wrong with the stucco.
Some situations that require plaster restoration include:
- Bubbles along the siding, near the bottom;
- Dark spots that are also present in good weather;
- Cracking or cracking in stucco;
- The drywall on the interior walls is soft to the touch;
- An unpleasant smell comes from the exterior or interior walls.
If you notice any of these signs, know that your stucco has suffered significant damage that cannot be repaired with anything other than repair.
Benefits of quick stucco repair
As you know by now, instant plaster repair can save you a lot of effort and money. Here are some of the benefits of this process:
- It's a permanent solution;
- This means less stucco for years to come;
- Saves money on frequent repairs;
- It gives you peace of mind knowing that the problem has been nipped in the bud.
Where to look for stucco damage
If you're wondering where to look first for possible stucco damage, these are the most common places:
- around the chimney;
- On the patio or terrace;
- Around doors, thresholds, windows and window sills;
- On masonry;
- Other house burglaries.
All in all, when it comes down to itstucco and repair, know that this particular method is the only remedy that will protect the stucco and the rest of your home's structure from further damage in the future.
Costs repair stucco
When it comes to costsstucco repair, know that early detection lowers the overall cost - the longer you wait to repair the grout, the higher the cost. The moment you notice mould, moisture puddles or dark spots on your plaster, you don't have to think twice to call in a professional to solve the problem
For example, you can go online and search for "stucco restoration near meand see what pops up. You can also ask your friends and neighbors for recommendations.
On average, an 80-pound bag of stucco costs about $9 to purchase. With this amount of material you can cover up to 25 square meters. However, if you need a stucco finish, you can pay more ($17 to $22 per bag).
In general, you can expect to pay from $6,000 to $9,000, considering a ratio of $6 to $9 per square foot.
Plaster and the rehabilitation process: final words
Stucco is a very durable finishing material with a typical service life of 50-80 years or more.
Not only is it one of the most durable surfaces available, it also has the lowest
annual maintenance costs compared to other cladding materials.
If you find that your patch is somehow not working, the sooner you decide to fix the problem, the better.Restoration of stuccoit addresses the causes of the problem, so if you choose it, know that while it is more expensive, you would pay less if you acted immediately.
Homeowners often leave it to professionalsour team at AA Britechoose which method is best for the patch in question: repair or rehabilitation.Stucco repairis the most suitable option when the damage is isolated and there is no structural damage to the walls or the rest of the property. However, if there is more to the problem than meets the eye, our experts can also repair the plaster.
FAQ
What is the main problem with stucco?
One of the biggest problems with stucco is porosity. In other words, this means that the plaster is dry and prone to cracking.
How often should the stucco be renewed?
In general, stucco is very durable. With proper maintenance, you can expect your stucco to last up to 50 years or more. Stucco, on the other hand, is best renewed every 4 to 5 years.
Is it expensive to replace a house?
Restoring stucco on residential buildings is more expensive than rebuilding drywall. In short, yes, re-stucco is more expensive than repair because the process involves every wall in the building.
FAQs
When should you repair stucco? ›
When Should You Repair? Repair should generally only be done if the damage to your stucco is surface level. If there are small cracks, no mold or moisture present, and the stucco is relatively new, repair might be all you require.
Why do people choose stucco? ›Pro: Durability
Stucco is a cement, sand, and water mixture, so it stays rigid, even in strong winds. Many folks may even prefer buying a stucco home over, for example, a brick structure. Additionally, stucco is fire- and pest-resistant, making it one of the most ideal residential building materials.
There are several stucco problems that you can encounter. The most common ones are staining and discoloration, stucco cracking, and moisture intrusion. Other problems include stucco extending below grade and caulking. Some of these issues will need either repair or remediation.
How often do you need to redo stucco? ›It is often recommended that stucco be painted every 5-10 years depending on its current condition. Each stucco home may have a different timeline on when it will need repairs and maintenance. Some factors include climate, the previous painting service, and how well you take care of your home.
Can you put new stucco over old stucco? ›You can apply new stucco on top of old, so long as the proper measures are taken to ensure the integrity of the new layer.
What is the biggest problem with stucco? ›Made from cement, lime, and sand, stucco is a unique material that— unlike vinyl or fiber siding— is porous, and therefore prone to cracking. In addition, stucco can retain water. That can lead to a number of issues including paint failure and mold.
What is the most popular stucco finish? ›The sand stucco finish, also known as float, is arguably one of the most popular types of stucco finish. The name “sand” comes from its grainy appearance as actual sand is mixed in with the stucco to achieve its texture.
What is the life expectancy of stucco? ›Stucco is a very durable finish material with a typical life span of 50-80 years or more. Although it is one of the most durable surfaces available, it also features the lowest annual maintenance cost when compared to other siding materials. Stucco is a natural material consisting of an aggregate, a binder, and water.
What years was stucco bad? ›Homes and buildings constructed after 1990 are at particular risk for “rotting from the inside out” due to improperly applied stucco exteriors over wood frame.
Why not to buy a stucco house? ›Stucco can tolerate moisture and expansion only up to a certain point. It is not as good as brick veneer or vinyl siding for keeping water out of the exterior walls of your house during periods of heavy rain. It will repel water well in average climates, but it may not be recommended in extremely rainy areas.
What is stucco weakness? ›
Stucco, similar to concrete, is very strong in compression but weak in tension. Stucco compression strengths range from 2000 to 3000 psi, but tensile strength is only 100 to 200 psi.
Is it better to paint stucco or re stucco? ›Seals Out Moisture
This allows your color to remain consistent even during a very rainy day. While it's true that stucco is well-known for absorbing moisture, painting stucco with the right paint can ensure it stays waterproofed and damp spots are kept at bay.
Take a walk around the outside of your home and pay attention for any signs that the stucco has been damaged. Three of the things that you'll want to look for are cracks, mold, and discoloration. All of these can be caused due to the age and resulting deterioration of your stucco or improper installation.
How often should stucco be sealed? ›In the case of unpainted stucco, a clear stucco sealer should be applied at least once every ten years.
How do you modernize old stucco? ›- Inspect the Stucco for Major Cracks and Issues. ...
- Pressure Wash the Stucco. ...
- Repair small Holes and Cracks with Acrylic Caulk. ...
- Use a Waterproofer to Seal and Protect the Cleaned and Repaired Stucco. ...
- Apply the Chosen Paint.
You can paint over any stucco finish, whether it be cement or EIFS. Since it does have texture to the outside finish, it may take more than one coat. Painting stucco is a great way to modernize an old stucco home.
Is it a good idea to put siding over stucco? ›While siding over stucco is an excellent way to prevent rain damage, it isn't as effective at keeping out water if there are any cracks or holes in the stucco. This means that you may need to check your home for leaks more often than usual when adding this material.
What does failing stucco look like? ›You may see dark spots, stains, cracks, or even entire missing pieces of stucco. There could also be a telltale smell of wet, rotting wood if you get close enough. Pay careful attention to the lower sections like the window and door sill.
Should stucco be flat or satin? ›A flat sheen will help hide the texture and any imperfections in the stucco pattern. If you do use a satin sheen on your stucco you may notice that the texture stands out more. If you want to emphasize the texture in your stucco then use a satin finish. Otherwise, we would recommend a flat sheen on stucco surfaces.
What is the most popular color for stucco? ›The most popular colors for stucco exteriors are pale neutral shades and earth tones such as white, tan, beige, gray, taupe, or pale pinks and peaches. What paint colors look best on stucco? You can't go wrong painting stucco classic white, which works on both historic and modern homes.
Does stucco decrease home value? ›
Stucco is a durable and reliable siding material that can increase the value of your home.
How do you check for moisture behind stucco? ›An exterior probe test is perhaps the most accurate determinant for the level of moisture damage in your stucco. A contractor will drill a set of 3/16-inch holes at each testing site, then insert a moisture meter to determine the level of moisture found behind your siding.
Should I avoid stucco? ›Due to its brittle nature, stucco siding will crack if a house foundation settles. It simply isn't the best choice in regions where soil is high in clay, notorious for swelling and causing foundations to shift. Over time, even stucco on homes with firm foundations can develop hairline cracks.
What is the new stucco called? ›EIFS stucco is applied in multiple layers over exterior sheathing, making it more expensive and less suitable for DIY than traditional stucco. EIFS weighs 80 percent less than traditional stucco. EIFS offers more energy efficiency with an R-value between 4 and 5.6 than traditional stucco, with 0.2.
What is the best thickness of stucco? ›Conventional stucco over wood should always be applied as a three-coat system. Scratch coat =3/8 inch thick, brown coat =3/8 inch thick, and finish coat =1/8 inch thick.
How do I choose stucco? ›Pick colors that work well with these features, your landscape, as well as any permanent fixtures on/or around your house. If you have a black or gray roof, consider gray, blue, white, or yellow for your stucco exterior. For a brown or dark tan roof, consider tan, brown, red, green, or cream exterior stucco.
Can stucco last 100 years? ›Durability. Stucco is resistant to fire, rot, mold, impact, and termite infestation. Depending on local climate conditions, the finish on stucco homes can last as long as 100 years.
What can damage stucco? ›Water damage for stucco siding is highly problematic, and, if left untreated, holds potential for mold. Water damage can also result in cracks around windows and doors. Crumbling stucco and soft spots or indentations can be indications of very serious water damage.
Does stucco increase home value? ›Does Stucco Siding Increase Home Value? HGTV says well-maintained stucco is an impressive, high-value improvement that can increase a home's curb appeal and value. However, stucco that's cracked or damaged won't have the same impact. All CAD conversions are based on the exchange rate on the date of publication.
Why is stucco not used in Texas? ›In almost every neighborhood and residential area in Texas, you'll see stucco homes. Stucco is a mixture of materials such as cement, sand, water, lime, and other additives. Unlike brick and wood, stucco is a poor choice for homes built in wet and humid areas due to its tendency to trap water and moisture.
Is stucco making a comeback? ›
However, stucco made a comeback in the early 20th century as part of the Arts and Crafts Movement. Stucco is now being used more widely than ever before, and its popularity is only expected to grow in the future.
What causes stucco to fall off? ›When moisture does accumulate behind the stucco, it will soften any material it touches, which will cause the stucco to start breaking and falling off, sometimes in small quantities and other times in larger sheets.
Can you pressure wash stucco? ›Yes, you can use a power washer or pressure washer to clean stucco. Just make sure to maintain a good distance between the nozzle and the surface, use the 1,500 PSI, and a 25- or 40-degree nozzle. Although, given the intensity of a power washer, seeking the help of a professional is always best.
What lasts longer stucco or siding? ›More durable: Because it's applied in a series of layers, stucco is more durable and longer-lasting than most siding materials. It can withstand harsh climates and lasts, on average, 60 to 100 years. More timeless: Stucco's unique characteristics make it a classic choice across the board.
Is stucco out of style? ›But stucco is still used on many residential home and business exteriors today. Even many higher-end homebuilders opt to use the exterior cladding material in place of vinyl siding. Just look for examples online, and you will see many home styles where stucco adds excellent curb appeal to the residence.
Should stucco touch the ground? ›If you are installing stucco, you must ensure that it does not touch the ground or, that is, below grade. It is necessary to have at least two inches of space in between the concrete as well as stucco for homes set upon concrete foundations.
Is stucco stronger than cement? ›Stucco siding has better durability. While both types of siding are known for their strength, in the long run, stucco can last for decades longer than fiber cement.
Should stucco be below grade? ›When stucco is installed, it should be above grade, allowing for a 6-8 inch gap between the stucco and soil. Below grade is the opposite.
Why not to paint stucco? ›The problem with painting your stucco siding is that it easily peels, chips, flakes, or cracks. Once stucco siding is compromised, water infiltrates it and causes costly damage. Avoid the hassle of stucco repair and replacement by hiring a qualified contractor to apply texture coating to your stucco.
Does stucco need 2 coats? ›Stucco application typically requires three coats. The initial “scratch coat” provides adhesion to the building. The “brown coat”, which comes second, is responsible for creating an even surface. Finally, the “finish coat” determines the stucco's outward appearance.
Does Sherwin Williams sell stucco? ›
LOXON Exterior Hot Stucco Coating | SherwinWilliams.
When should I replace or repair stucco? ›When you see problems with your stucco like these—cracks and flakes, missing or chipped caulking, stucco tears or other discoloration around windows and doors—contact a reliable contractor to have your stucco inspected. Ask for their input on the best solution: repair or remediation.
Does water seep through stucco? ›Since stucco is a masonry product, it is often believed to be waterproof already. However, this isn't totally true — stucco is indeed permeable and will let some water through.
What color should stucco be? ›Stucco Colors
Most homeowners go with a neutral color like tan, gray, off-white, or beige. Since neutral stucco colors act as a simple backdrop, they won't outshine other outdoor elements like trim or landscaping. Likewise, a stark white stucco color can contrast nicely with a darker trim color.
Stucco is a durable and great-looking exterior finish, but it isn't invincible. Ideally, stucco should be painted every five to ten years. It's important to paint and perform other stucco maintenance on the right schedule to keep your home looking great and to prevent hairline cracks from growing larger.
Does stucco require a lot of maintenance? ›Stucco isn't delicate. Whether applied as exterior siding or as a finish for interior walls, the age-old material requires little in the way of ongoing maintenance. Occasional cleaning or patching may be necessary, but with the right combination of products and tools, any homeowner can get the job done.
What happens if you don't prime stucco before painting? ›This can discolour the paint and leave it looking washed out or even looking like a different hue. By using a primer as an intermediary, you are better able to protect the colour of your stucco and prolong the paint's life.
What temperature does it have to be to repair stucco? ›Proper curing also requires that plaster be in a medium temperature range. Usual recommendations range from 40° Fahrenheit on the low side to 90° Fahrenheit on the high side. Too cold and there is a risk that water in fresh plaster would freeze. As this is an expansive process, cracking could occur.
When should I be concerned about cracks in stucco? ›Larger cracks, we're talking 1/16 of an inch, are cause for concern. If you can slide your credit card into the crack in your stucco, it's time to seek some professional help. Larger cracks like these can indicate a structural issue that needs to be addressed prior to repairing the stucco.
Should you patch stucco? ›Stucco is one of the most durable wall surfaces available, but because of its rigid nature, stucco can develop cracks and holes over time due to settling and impact damage. Once a crack or hole develops it is important to seal it from water to prevent further deterioration.
Can you repair stucco in winter? ›
It's important to note that stucco repair can't be performed in all weather conditions. The air temperature must be at least 40 degrees for contractors to work with stucco. When the temperature is below 40 degrees, the chemical process between the cement and water mix will slow down, and the water can begin to freeze.
What is best for stucco repair? ›Small, thin cracks in your stucco wall can be easily fixed with exterior latex paintable caulk. Choose a caulk color that is close to your stucco color. You may not find an exact match, but something close to it. If need be, you can touch up the caulked area with an exterior paint that matches your stucco color.
What happens if it rains on fresh stucco? ›This specified curing time is required to have adequate strength and have a firm condition. If the rain doesn't hold up during this period then it can make the bond between the substances weak and fragile. The chemical bond will go through stress, and the Stucco installation will become delayed.
What is the main problem with stucco? ›Made from cement, lime, and sand, stucco is a unique material that— unlike vinyl or fiber siding— is porous, and therefore prone to cracking. In addition, stucco can retain water. That can lead to a number of issues including paint failure and mold.
Do stucco cracks mean foundation issues? ›Superficial or deep, small or large, cracks in stucco allow moisture and water to pass freely through your walls. This could lead to extensive water damage, rot, structural problems, and costly repairs down the road. As well, deep or wide stucco cracks are always an indicator of foundation damage.
Should I paint or seal stucco? ›Sealing your stucco is a great way to prevent water absorption. New stucco should be sealed with a clear concrete masonry sealer, typically made of a silicone material. For older stucco that's already showing signs of cracking, waterproof elastomeric paints are an excellent choice to preserve and protect your stucco.
Should stucco be sprayed or rolled? ›Stucco can be painted using a roller or with an airless sprayer – a brush is not recommended. A roller works well for small jobs, but can be overwhelming on larger projects. When it comes to big jobs consider using an airless sprayer. It makes putting paint on a breeze – especially on larger jobs.
How many years does stucco last? ›Stucco can well last over 50 years with proper maintenance. It can expand and contract with the weather to sustain critical damage, unlike other siding options. It's also resistant to mold, rot and mildew.