Is it common for stucco to crack?

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 cracking is normal in stucco?

Hairline Cracks – Typical stucco cracks that require normal maintenance are hairline cracks less than 1/8 of an inch. These cracks can be stair-stepping on concrete block homes and that's completely fine.

Does stucco always crack?

Stucco cracks are not unusual and most are not a structural problem, however, if the cracks are related to structural issues, they can be very expensive to fix and serious damage can occur to a home. Therefore, it is important to know how to tell which cracks are normal, and which are serious structural stucco cracks.

Can stucco cracks be repaired?

QUIKRETE Stucco Repair or QUIKRETE Pre-Mixed Stucco Patch can be used. Widen the crack to a minimum of 1/4 inch using a chisel and hammer (the edges of the crack should be vertical or beveled in an inverted “V”). Break away any deteriorating concrete and remove loose material with a brush.

How long should stucco 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.

Episode 5: Is Stucco Cracking Normal?

Why did my stucco crack?

Though cracks in stucco can occur due to different factors, including wrong mix proportions, insufficient mixing, poor workmanship, seismic movement and seasonal changes, two leading causes of cracks in stucco are the house settling process and shrinkage-induced stresses, which typically occur during the drying period.

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.

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 is considered a hairline crack?

A.: ACI 116R-90, Cement and Concrete Terminology, defines hairline cracks as cracks in an exposed concrete surface having widths so small as to be barely perceptible.

Should I be worried about cracks in stucco?

Stucco cracks are not only an embarrassing eyesore, but they just might be a huge red flag pointing to compromised structural integrity and possible foundation failure. The truth is, stucco cracks are always a symptom of a deeper issue, not the problem itself.

How do you know if stucco is bad?

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.

Can cracks in stucco cause leaks?

Now stucco cracks don't always mean that there is damage, but it is usually a common sign of stucco moisture problems. Cracks and bubbles along the bottom edge of the wall — You may notice water leaking through the stucco walls and showing up along the bottom edge due to poor drainage systems.

Can you caulk cracks in stucco?

There are two main types of caulking that are best for stucco applications and these are for repairing cracks and for using when lathing to seal up certain areas. The two main types that are recommended by most people are an acrylic based caulking and a polyurethane based caulking.

Can wind cause stucco to crack?

Hurricane winds can cause cracks in stucco especially where the stucco bridges a joint that flexes (Figure 8). Fresh stucco cracks are sharp and unweathered. Merging cracks occasionally contain loose pieces of the stucco material. Localized damage can occur where flying debris strikes the stucco clad wall.

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 it hard to maintain stucco?

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.

How often should a stucco house be repainted?

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.

How much does it cost to recoat stucco?

Recoat: A basic recoat costs between $3 and $6 per square foot, depending on the condition, type and texture of your walls. For a large repair, you may need a pro to recoat the stucco on a large portion of the house to make the patch color match everything else, as well as seal out moisture.

How do you refresh stucco?

Power-washing can clean off the dirt and grime and refresh the look of dingy stucco, and painting can also refresh its look. But homeowners who find that their homes need to be power-washed frequently may want to consider a smoother stucco surface the next time they have exterior work done.

Is stucco good for a house?

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.

Does stucco increase home value?

Whether you're building a new home or simply renovating your existing one, stucco installation is something you should consider in your plans. Stucco is a durable and reliable siding material that can increase the value of your home.

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.