Why does stucco need to be inspected?

Why is a stucco inspection necessary? Stucco inspections are necessary due to the fact that stucco is porous, and therefore allows moisture to migrate through it. In the past 30 years or so, lots of stucco applications were installed incorrectly due to lack of experience and training from the installers part.

How often should you inspect stucco?

Recommended Time for Inspections

It is recommended that you inspect your stucco every two years or so to ensure that it's showing no signs of damage. You can certainly inspect this material on your own, though it will help you greatly to have the professionals stop by and perform this inspection.

What are the problems with stucco houses?

Stucco tears and other discoloration around windows, doors, electrical boxes, pipes, meters, and spotlights. Pervasive scent of wood rot. Water leaking into the house, damaging the ceiling, walls, and flooring. Dry rot around windows.

How long does the stucco test take?

24 Hour Turnaround – We can inspect your property and have a stucco inspection report in your hands the next day.

What is a stucco test?

Stucco inspection is a series of tests and analyses performed on your home's interior and exterior surfaces to determine moisture levels. These tests may include the use of moisture reading and special equipment for use on your home's surfaces. Due to stucco's permeability, proper installation is very important.

How to Inspect Your Stucco Building - Visual Inspection Turns Invasive

How do you check for moisture in stucco?

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.

How long will a stucco house 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.

Should I avoid stucco homes?

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.

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 EIFS stucco?

What is EIFS? Unlike traditional stucco that utilizes natural ingredients and mesh, External Insulation and Finishing Systems (EIFS) stucco uses layers that add in synthetic materials. The first layer is comprised of a polystyrene foam board. Then, that is followed by a fiberglass mesh and a finishing coat.

How do you identify EIFS?

The easiest way to identify synthetic stucco (EIFS) is by touching the material with your bare hand. When you touch the wall where the stucco is installed, it will feel like plastic. You can also knock gently on the wall. If it sounds hollow and thin, you have EIFS on your home.

How often should EIFS be painted?

What type of maintenance is required for EIFS? Unlike wood, stucco and other siding materials, EIFS rarely need painting. Most EIFS systems are specifically formulated with 100% acrylic binder, which gives EIFS superior resistance to fading, chalking and yellowing.

How long should synthetic stucco last?

Most newer homes with exterior stucco have an acrylic-polymer finish, which will expand and contract with the weather. This keeps cracks to a minimum and means the stucco can easily last up to 50 years before needing to be repaired.

How do you maintain synthetic stucco?

Use gentle pressure and scrubbing to keep your synthetic stucco durable and resistant to wear. Regular cleaning with the proper technique can ensure your synthetic stucco finish looks its best. Fill a pump sprayer with 1 qt. chlorine bleach and 1 cup trisodium phosphate per gallon of warm water.

Should you buy a house made of stucco?

Despite the negative press it has received, stucco is a great cladding material. It's durable, comes in many colors and textures, and provides a high-end appearance for a home, thereby increasing curb appeal and market value.

Does stucco add value to a home?

Does Stucco Siding Increase Home Value? HGTV says well-maintained stucco is an impressive, high-value improvement that can increase a home's curb appeal and value.

Can you use a power washer on 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.

Why are California houses made of stucco?

Stucco is extremely durable. It is fire-resistant and has the ability to expand and contract with the seasonal shifts. It is known to last for up to 50 years before needing to be replaced.

Should you paint over stucco?

While stucco is a very durable surface, it will need to be repainted periodically – but not often. Proper application using high-quality paint can help your stucco last over 20 years without peeling or blistering, but its longevity also depends on environmental factors.

Why are homes built with stucco?

Stucco is energy efficient and provides insulation for the building or home, helping to cut these costs. In addition to the practical reasons to use it, stucco also provides an aesthetic style to buildings that is popular and characteristic of many areas in the Southwest.

How do you check pH in stucco?

The most commonly used method to determine pH is with a pH pencil (which can be obtained from most paint distributors) and distilled water. Scratch a small area on the test surface and wet it with distilled water. A color chart is provided to match the color of the test area with the corresponding pH color level.

How do I check my house for moisture?

The easiest way to measure your indoor humidity level is by using a hygrometer. A hygrometer is a device that serves as an indoor thermometer and humidity monitor.

Is EIFS stucco still used?

Yet today, EIFS are still around. About 100 million square feet of EIFS went on new and remodeled homes last year, rivaling any other siding material.

Can you pressure wash EIFS?

The best way to clean EIFS is to use high water volume coupled with low water pressure and non-abrasive cleaners. Do not use caustic chemicals or abrasive cleaning techniques, which will permanently damage the finish.