Stucco repair is a job that’s best performed by masonry experts. Stucco damage may be caused by a lot of things, and the most common issues that homeowners have to deal with are cracks, holes, and discoloration. Every problem is different from the others so not all repair tips and tricks are always applicable.
Stucco is the most preferred finishing for walls and siding because of its durability and insulation benefits. Stucco is also fire-resistant and soundproof, which are added features that property owners want for their homes.
Stucco Repair Tips for Large and Small Holes
When you see holes in your stucco finishing, patching is the repair technique that’s most applicable. If you’re quite adept with basic home repairs, then this task shouldn’t be too hard for you. Just be sure to remove any loose stucco from the hole using a chisel or hammer. You should also install a new wire mesh, in case a part of it gets damaged. Once that’s ready, mix the stucco with water in the right consistency and patch it over the hole. Apply several coats as necessary, making sure that you wait for the previous coating to completely dry before applying the next.
The same procedure is used for small holes. Be sure to repair small holes right away before they get a lot bigger. Remember that holes, no matter how small, let in moisture into your home. Everybody knows that mold only need a small amount of moisture to proliferate. Small holes create big problems just the same so never make the mistake of ignoring them.
Stucco Repair Tips for Cracks
Cracks in a stucco wall may either be wide and deep or shallow and hairline-like. Either way, you need to get them fixed as soon as you can. But so you know, cracks are quite common in stucco finishing because it is a material that’s made of cement. As such, it is not as resilient as rubber or epoxy-based compounds. If your home settles, shifts, or shakes due to natural causes like seismic activities, earthquakes, storms, or heavy winds, these cracks may occur.
Repairing hairline cracks may be as easy as applying an acrylic latex paint over them. However, be sure that you use the shade that perfectly matches the rest of the siding for the best aesthetic results. If the crack is rather wide and deep, you may need to do some patchwork. Just follow the same procedures of repairing stucco holes. You may also use special fillers designed for stucco repair.
Stucco Repair Tips for Staining or Weathering
Stained or weathered stucco looks unappealing. But don’t make the mistake of applying ordinary paint over a discolored stucco wall because that isn’t the best solution to the problem. The ideal way to solve it is to get the wall re-dashed. This process involves whitewashing it with the right mixture of water and white cement, unless the wall is tinted. To address this issue the right way, it is best to call stucco repair professionals.
