Stucco must be one of the toughest finishing a home can have. When properly installed, it could last for several years, decades even. But if it isn’t applied right, then you might need to do stucco repair sooner than you expected. It’s always best to call the professionals when problems like these arise.
But then, calling the professionals doesn’t mean you shouldn’t learn what you must about stucco repair. Stucco has long been the most preferred exterior siding material because of its low maintenance requirements, fire-resistant properties, and extra insulation benefits.
Stucco Repair General Tips
Before you go about doing stucco repair work, you have to know the right mix for the surface that you want to cover. Stucco is used on all types of surfaces, from walls to mailboxes, and there’s a right stucco recipe, so to speak, for each one. The right one will give you the best possible results.
Professionals also know the best time to do stucco repairs. They know for a fact that freezing temperatures may ruin the stucco. They also don’t apply it on a very hot, dry, or windy day because such temperatures may suck out the moisture from the stucco and it may not cure properly. The best time is a shady day when the temperature is a little above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
What to Do When Working With Stucco
Be sure that you have all the tools ready before you start mixing the stucco. You want to apply the stucco after mixing it or it will harden and become unusable. When mixing stucco, stir in little water at a time to get the right consistency. If it contains too much water, then the mix will be loose and runny, and that’s not what you want.
Working safely is also highly advised, which means you have to wear work clothes and gloves. Protect your eyes, nose, and mouth as well. Never touch the stucco mix with your bare hands as it contains alkalis that can burn your skin. If the mix accidentally splashed off you, wash it with water immediately.
How to Go About Stucco Repair
Repairing stucco starts with breaking off loose stucco and chipping away the edges. It’s important to remove all damaged stucco all the way until you get the lath exposed. However, be careful not to damage the lath. Once you’re done with all the chipping, cover any exposed lath with a builder’s paper. You also need to replace the wire mesh with a new one.
Once all the prep work is done, it’s time to mix the stucco and apply it. Using a brick trowel, toss the stucco mix against the wire mesh to completely cover it. You can add several coating as needed. If you do, wait for the first coat to dry out before applying the next one. The patches usually need a few days or the entire week to dry before it’s ready for finishing or painting so be sure not to rush things when you’re doing stucco repair work.
