Whether you have an adobe-style home in Arizona or a French provincial home in New England, stucco makes for a beautiful and unique exterior. Knowing what to do when it needs to be repaired, however, requires a little understanding of the product and the help of a professional.
What is stucco?
Stucco is a plaster finish that is used on the exterior of houses. According to the U.S. Department of the Interior's National Parks Service, stucco has been around since ancient times and is very popular today as well, particularly in the deserts of the Southwest. Stucco can be applied over lathe, wood, or existing masonry and is commonly mixed with either lime, portland cement, straw, or even gravel to create a unique and lasting finish on the exterior of a home. It can be painted or left to age naturally.
How long does stucco last?
While the length of time any exterior finish lasts depends on the quality of the original application and the weather conditions in that part of the country, stucco typically lasts up to 50 years. In fact, newer stucco applications have a polymer added to help the stucco compound expand and contract as the temperature changes, which helps extend the life of the product.
Should you be worried about cracks in stucco?
Cracks in stucco happen. It is part of the nature of the product and is typically not something to be concerned about. Large cracks, on the other hand, could be a sign of a faulty foundation. All homes settle over time, but excessive settling that results in large, exposed cracks can be due to a problem with the foundation. Talk to an expert to determine your exact situation.
Is stucco easy to repair?
Small cracks can be easily patched by a stucco repair service. Repairing a crack is a straightforward procedure. The cracks are cleared of any debris and loose stucco, and the crack is filled with fresh product and troweled to match the existing finish. Fresh paint can be applied after the stucco has had time to cure.
Can you repair stucco yourself?
While stucco is easy to repair, a professional is the best person for the job in order to guarantee a seamless and unnoticeable repair.
Can you put new stucco over old stucco?
New stucco can be applied over old if the original stucco is stable and firmly attached to the house. A stucco repair service can simply apply another coat with a more desirable trowel pattern for you.
Stucco is a long-lasting and beautiful exterior finish. With the right stucco repair service at your side, you can enjoy your stucco exterior for many years to come.