How do I know if I have stucco problems?

What are the signs of stucco problems?

What are common stucco problems?

Stucco problems like efflorescence, decomposition, peeling paint, rot, bugs, and mold usually happen due to the level of moisture that comes into contact with the stucco itself. In many cases, cracks can also occur, but often this is not related to moisture.

What is the most serious problem with exterior stucco?

When a home's stucco doesn't have the necessary space or is below the grade, it can trap water and moisture leading to the formation of mold, rotting, cracking, and crumbling. Additionally, the stucco will begin to soak up even more moisture from the ground.

How do you know if your stucco is leaking?

How do you know you have leaks in your stucco siding? You'll likely see staining around the corners of windows or doors, possibly dark spots where at the roofline, and even hairline cracks. All of these are indicators of possible water damage and are signs of where water runs on or behind the stucco.

The most common stucco problems!!

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.

What happens when water gets behind 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.

How long do stucco homes 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.

Can hairline cracks in stucco cause leaks?

#5 Depth of crack

Note that in a Traditional hard coat stucco, most hairline cracks only penetrate the finish coat, and not through the scratch coat or brown coat, thus they do not usually leak.

Does stucco need to be replaced?

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.

When should I worry 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.

How often do you need to paint a stucco house?

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.

Can water penetrate 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.

Why does stucco need to be inspected?

If the house has a stucco, veneer, or panel siding exterior, an inspection is recommended to check for moisture buildup inside the walls. This can cause severe damage to the structure as well as mold and mildew growth. Home inspections are also recommended regardless of if you are the buyer or the seller of the house.

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.

Are cracks in stucco a problem?

In short, hairline stucco cracks are common and can be easily repatched. Most are not a serious indicator of foundation damage or structural disrepair. However, hairline cracks caused by foundation settlement will likely reappear after the repair and worsen.

How much does it cost to repair cracks in stucco?

Labor. Stucco repair pros charge $40 to $50 per hour on average to fix damaged stucco siding, whether that's filling in a small crack on a single wall or tackling the whole exterior. If your pro charges by the square foot, the cost is approximately $60 to $120 per square foot.

What do vertical cracks in stucco mean?

The vertical one above and below windows and doors are often expected because the windows and doors open and close, which causes vibrations, the leading cause of hairline cracks in stucco walls.

Do hairline cracks need to be repaired in stucco?

Stucco is a cement-based siding that can easily crack that soaks in water and cause water intrusion. Repairing hairline stucco cracks is important for regular home maintenance. However, other types of stucco cracks may require professional repairs.

Does stucco need 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.

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.

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.

How do you fix water damaged stucco?

If you believe the stucco requires a minor repair, you can remove the damaged section of stucco, much like you would with damaged drywall or rotted wood. Patch the area with a stucco mix that matches your current exterior. Apply three coats of the stucco and allow for drying time between applications.

How do you test for stucco moisture?

A method to identify the amount of moisture in particular areas involves drilling small holes and inserting a moisture probe into the area. The probe holes are then filled with a silicone caulk that ideally matches the color of the stucco and generally blend into the system.

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.