Can rain leak through stucco?

Water leakage is a common issue with stucco in areas where seasonal rain is the norm. If water gets behind stucco it will soften the areas it comes in contact with, eventually causing the stucco to break away and fall off in sheets. How do you know you have leaks in your stucco siding?

Can rain seep through stucco?

Despite what many people think about stucco walls, stucco walls are not water-resistant. As a matter of fact water actually absorbs into the stucco. In most cases, the problem with water leaking through stucco is that the building envelope has been breached.

Does stucco let water in?

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.

Can water cause stucco to crack?

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.

What happens when water gets behind stucco?

Water leakage is a common issue with stucco in areas where seasonal rain is the norm. If water gets behind stucco it will soften the areas it comes in contact with, eventually causing the stucco to break away and fall off in sheets.

Identifying Water Intrusion Through Stucco

How do you waterproof stucco walls?

There are three key components to waterproofing a stucco house for the long term: Using a multiple layer approach to stucco installation, including an air gap in those layers, and correct installation of flashing around any openings in the stucco walls.

What is the main problem with stucco?

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.

Is stucco a water barrier?

Three-coat stucco is the most common exterior cladding here in Southern California; properly installed, it's tough, durable, and attractive. But it's not waterproof. No matter how skilled the plasterer is, rain will get behind stucco.

How often should stucco be sealed?

If new, stucco can be sealed with a clear concrete/ masonry sealer, which will penetrate into the stucco and stop moisture entrance. These are typically silicone type sealers. While effective, these finishes will usually need to be redone every 4-5 years.

What does water damage look like on stucco?

Cracks and bubbles along the bottom edge of the wall — Resulting from a poor drainage system, water leaking through stucco walls shows up along the bottom edge. If you see dense cracks or odd bubbles, you're looking at the signs of stucco damage.

Does stucco need weep holes?

Weep screeds are generally only used on walls constructed with wood framing, and are not required on stucco-coated masonry structures or when adhered stone is installed over masonry.

How long does a stucco exterior last?

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.

How do I know if my stucco house is bad?

Can you waterproof stucco?

A great way to protect the look of your stucco and prolong the life of your exterior stucco is to apply a Stucco Sealer by Rainguard®. Our Stucco Sealer is an easy to apply, reliable sealants that will help keep water and moisture from absorbing into the surface of your stucco.

What are the disadvantages of stucco?

Is it safe 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.

Why you should not paint stucco?

Stucco needs to breath – One of the main reasons you shouldn't coat your stucco with paint is because stucco is porous. This allows moisture that hits the surface to easily evaporate away. A coat of paint can harm that breathability.

Is there a sealant for stucco?

The best sealer for stucco is the Iso-Tek 8100. Best used as a water repellent sealer on natural stucco or as a primer and bonding agent for stucco that will be painted, the Iso-Tek 8100 is an industrial grade penetrating concrete sealer.

How do you seal exterior stucco?

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.

Does stucco need a drainage layer?

One-coat (synthetic) stucco over a cementitious backer board can work well, but it must have intentional drainage behind it. For traditional three-coat stucco, building codes often require two-layers of building paper behind the stucco.

How often should a stucco house be painted?

Stucco is a popular exterior choice due to its durability. However, a stucco home will still need exterior maintenance. It is often recommended that stucco be painted every 5-10 years depending on its current condition.

What goes behind stucco walls?

Sheathing is basically the “backing material” that can be found underneath the various layers of stucco that form the backing of residential and commercial buildings. They can be made out of wood, cement, gypsum, fiberglass and other materials.