If you have a crack or other small damage to your stucco, you may be tempted to fix it yourself. That’s a good option in many cases, but it should be avoided when underlying issues must be addressed. If your cracks are caused by moisture and mold, then it’s time to fix the underlying problem. Otherwise, the repair may only be a bandaid, and future repairs will be needed. To learn more about stucco repair, visit Stucco Repair Philadelphia.
Stucco repair is fixing and restoring damaged or deteriorated stucco on a building’s exterior. Stucco is a cement-based material commonly used as a decorative and protective finish on walls and other surfaces. Over time, stucco can become cracked, chipped, or stained due to weathering, moisture, or other factors. Stucco repair involves assessing the extent of the damage, removing any loose or damaged material, and applying a new layer of stucco to the affected area. The repair process may also involve applying a primer, patching compound, or sealant to improve adhesion and prevent future damage. Stucco repair should be done by a professional with experience in working with stucco materials and techniques to ensure that the repair is done properly and matches the surrounding stucco finish. Properly maintaining and repairing stucco can help protect the building from moisture and other damage, and extend the life of the stucco finish.
Hairline cracks less than a dime wide (and no more than a quarter-inch thick) can be easily repaired using acrylic exterior caulk. Filling a crack larger than a dime will require professional stucco repair and mixing fresh stucco to match the original. Some cracks in stucco are a sign of problems with the lath. These are most often seen in a grid of horizontal and vertical lines on your walls, and can indicate a problem with the way that the lath was installed or an issue with your foundation.
Diagonal cracks that appear around doors and windows are also a sign of house settling or seismic movements. These should be addressed first, as they can be a symptom of a serious structural issue that will need to be fixed before repairing the stucco. If you notice a crack that is wider than a dime or if it has a pattern, call in the pros to see what needs to be done. In some cases, removing and replacing the lath with new lath may be necessary.
Leaks are another important issue with stucco that should be addressed early on. If left unchecked, water penetrating into the walls can lead to rot, mold, and structural damage.
Stucco is a durable, attractive finish used on exterior walls of homes and other buildings. However, like all exterior wall surfaces, the stucco’s integrity must be intact to prevent leaks.
It can be difficult to tell if your home’s stucco is leaking, so a professional inspection should be a part of any stucco repair. The inspector can test for moisture, cracks, and other signs of leaks.
If you find any of these issues, call a contractor right away. Otherwise, your stucco can deteriorate to the point where it will be impossible to sell your house or fix the problem yourself.
A number of things can cause stains in stucco. Some are common and easy to repair, while others may require more specialized cleaning solutions.
One of the most common stains on stucco is water. Depending on where you live, many homes have hard water running through their pipes that can stain the porous surface of the stucco.
Another common type of stucco stain comes from rusty objects. These include grates, vents and gutters that can rust over time.
A simple solution of oxygen bleach mixed with water can be used to kill the source of the stains and remove them. Mix the solution and apply it liberally to the affected area, allowing it to sit for 30 minutes. Rinse the area thoroughly afterward to get rid of the solution and any pollutants.
When water gets trapped behind stucco, it can cause dry rot. This can be a significant problem that affects your home’s structural integrity.
It can also lead to dangerous mold development and make your home unsafe for you and your family. A stucco remediation project is the best way to prevent these problems from occurring.
If you notice cracks or flakes in your stucco, contact a contractor to find the best option for your home. They can also recommend whether or not you need a full remediation.
Stucco repair often works well for isolated areas of failure but will not solve the underlying issue. The underlying issue is the water management system, which must be corrected before any repairs can be made.
