STUCCO REPAIRS

STUCCO REPAIRSIt can be said that stucco has only one REAL enemy. Moisture....

Stucco is water RESISTENT but not water PROOF. A successful application relies solely on a successful waterproof barrier and stucco is weakest when compromised "from within". Although traditional stucco is still incredibly resilient overall; stucco damage can occur to older applications or poorly executed newer ones. Often this damage will cause cracks requiring stucco repairs.

Knowing how to repair stucco is an art-form in itself. Stucco repairs require a full understanding of the nuances of just how stucco reacts under certain conditions. Whether it's a window patch or a stucco crack, the right approach is paramount in achieving a "seamless" and successful stucco repair.

Stucco failure is usually the result of water penetration into the structure of a building. This infiltration can occur through the roof, window and door openings or even via excessive ground water, with water penetrating through or splashing up from the foundation.

Stucco repairs incorrectly carried out can and often will cause additional problems going forward. Stucco cracks that permit the access of water almost always lead to stucco failure. Knowing how to repair stucco compromised to such an extent can mean the difference between an entirely new stucco finish and another 5-10 years of life with your existing stucco siding. It pays to have the right stucco contractor perform your stucco repairs. The cost savings alone can be immense!

Like any problem in construction or even life itself, one must first identify the source. The cause of the failure must be identified first, before any necessary stucco repairs are planned.

Before beginning any stucco repairs, a full evaluation should be carried out to determine the actual extent of the stucco damage. How much of the surrounding stucco needs to be removed in advance. The condition of the lath, the framing, the waterproof barrier; - these are just a few problem areas that need assessing before any stucco repairs are carried out.

LA Stucco Company has a dedicated unit assigned to stucco repairs ONLY. These specialist individuals know how to repair stucco damage from ANY source or situation. It is our firm belief that if we can provide an outstanding stucco repair service; the chances are we'll be back to install a brand new application when the time calls for it!

In the meantime, for a brief synopsis of stucco issues and remedies, please see out stucco repair guide below. If you still need further assistance or explanation however, please do not hesitate to contact one of our expert technicians.

REFERENCE GUIDE FOR STUCCO REPAIR

SYMPTOMS COMMON CSUSES POSS. RESULTS IF NO ACTION TAKEN EVALUATION/PREPARATION REPAIR METHOD
cracks at wall penetrations. Building movement casused by themal contraction cycles of wind. Water intrusion; leaks into interior; deterioration of finish and stucco; deterioration of sheathing and framing. Consult qualified structural engineer for recommendations. likely re-stucco.
Random 'spider' stucco cracks Thermal expansion and contraction cycles.Improper stucco mix.Improper stucco curing. Lead to larger cracks, increasing the potential for water intrusion and same sequence as above. Evaluate the integrity of the stucco to ensure that it is sound.Clean surface prior to application of bonding agent. Bonding agent and new finish coat or stucco repair and paint.
Dimensional, linear cracking. Wood sheething not gapped.Improper lath and trim accessory installation. Water intrusion; leaks into interior;deterioration of finish and stucco;deterioration of sheathing and framing. Consult qualified structural engineer for recommendations.Invasive sheathing/substrate will likely be needed for evaluation. likely re-stucco.
In severe cases, localized water stains in interior.Could also be attributed to cracks in the stucco. Defective weather resistent barrier. Structural damage; wood rot; delamination. Determine and correct source of water penetration. Re-stucco as required.
Linear cracks and stucco loosened from building. Misapplication of lath; wood rot; separation of the Scratch and Brown coats. Water intrusion; leaks into interior;deterioration of existing stucco;deterioration of sheathing and framing. Remove and replace damaged stucco, sheathing and framing. Re-stucco as required.
Stucco blistering, peeling,flaking, severe chalking. Moisture penetration. Water intrusion; deterioration of finish and stucco. Determine and correct source of water penetration. Replace any weakened stucco areas and clean wall surface for bonding. Bonding agent and new finish coat or stucco repair and paint.
Random stucco cracks appear soon after construction. Inadequately cured stucco and/or new construction settling'. Lead to larger cracks, then water intrusion and same sequence as above. Evaluate the integrity of the stucco to ensure that it is sound. Bonding agent and new finish coat or stucco repair and paint.
Stucco peeling, flaking of paint or colored stucco over brown coat Loss over time of bond to stucco brown coat. Water intrusion; deterioration of finish and stucco. Power wash to remove loose paint or stucco. Bonding agent and new finish coat.