As a layered exterior, Stucco Repair Philadelphia is incredibly durable but damage to this material requires prompt remediation to prevent moisture penetration. Moisture penetration leads to rot, mold, and other structural instability.
For small cracks and holes, use a paintable stucco patching plaster to fill the space. Apply it in layers and allow each layer to dry.
Water Damage
While stucco is durable and long-lasting when it’s properly cared for, water damage is a common problem. If left unchecked, it can lead to more serious structural issues and expensive repairs. A few simple inspections can help prevent water damage to stucco, but sometimes it’s necessary to repair damage that is already present.
Stucco requires a strong barrier against moisture, and this is typically provided by an effective sealant. However, this protective layer can be damaged by various factors, including sprinkler systems that spray the walls, excessive rain, and extreme weather. Once the protective sealant fails, water sneaks in and starts causing problems.
Signs of water damage include hairline cracks, discoloration, loose or bulging stucco, and white, powdery residue known as efflorescence. If you suspect water damage, a moisture meter is an excellent tool for testing for trapped moisture. You can also do a physical test by lightly tapping the surface of your stucco. A hollow sound suggests that the stucco has separated from its underlying lath support, and can lead to more significant damage.
If you see signs of moisture, the best course of action is to have a professional examine the area. They can recommend a variety of different repair methods and tools, including invasive approaches like pulling back sections of the wall. Once the damaged stucco has been repaired, a new waterproof coating should be applied to prevent moisture from returning.
Water damage to stucco can also cause rotting of the underlying wooden lath supports, so these need to be replaced before the new stucco is installed. A professional can help ensure that this is done correctly to preserve the longevity of your home’s exterior.
Once the repairs are complete, you can then paint the stucco to match its original appearance. Using an acrylic latex paint designed for stucco is recommended. The right paint will protect the new surface from moisture and UV rays, helping it last longer. Be sure to follow the proper painting techniques, such as allowing for a curing process and preventing over-application of the paint.
Loose or Damaged Lathing
Whether caused by an accident or natural weather conditions, sometimes the wood lathing and framing behind your stucco will become loose or damaged. It’s important to inspect and address these issues before continuing with your repair work, as this will ensure that your new stucco is a lasting and durable feature for your home.
Once you have determined the cause of your damage, clean and dry the area. This will help the patch and subsequent coats of stucco to adhere properly. If necessary, replace any rotten lath. It is important to use galvanized lath when repairing these areas, as this will provide the best long-term results.
Next, check for any cracks in the stucco. If you find any, it’s essential to repair these cracks immediately before they worsen. Cracks in stucco can lead to structural damage and may be a sign of future water leaks.
Finally, look for signs of mold or mildew. These will often appear as a greenish stain or different colors on your wall. If you find any of these, it is essential to scrub the affected area with a solution of one part bleach and four parts water. Be sure to wear gloves and eye protection. Be sure to rinse the area thoroughly and allow it to completely dry before continuing with your repair work.
When preparing to repair, always use quality materials and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application. It is also important to keep in mind that some repairs are more serious than others and should be left to a licensed contractor or professional who does stucco repair daily.
When mixing the first coat of stucco, be sure to add the acrylic bonding agent according to the recommended instructions. Once the mix is ready, wet the edge of the old stucco and apply a thin coat to the area being repaired. This is the scratch coat. It will not only cover any existing cracks, it will also provide a solid surface for the subsequent coats of stucco to adhere to.
Mold or Mildew
Stucco is a carefree and long-lived cladding material, but it doesn’t mean you should ignore signs of damage. A few basic tips can help you keep on top of your stucco’s needs, protecting it from water damage and maintaining its beauty.
A major sign of trouble is a discoloration on the surface of your wall, whether it’s a noticeable patch or a whole section. These can be caused by several things. Sprinklers that go off in the rain are a common cause of this, washing away the waterproof layer and inviting moisture into the walls. Over time, this can lead to mold or mildew. A musty smell can also indicate a mold problem that needs to be addressed.
If the discoloration is accompanied by cracks, this can be an indicator of moisture damage. If the cracks appear in a pattern and seem to be getting larger, it may suggest that the stucco is separating from the lath support, which can cause further issues. You can do a physical test to see if this is the case by tapping the stucco with a mallet. A hollow sound suggests that the stucco has separated from the underlying lath and is holding moisture.
Once the cracks or discoloration have been repaired, you can protect your investment by applying a protective coating. An acrylic elastomer is a popular choice for this, but mineral paints and lime washes are also acceptable. Regardless of what you choose, make sure that the coating is mildewcide treated to prevent further growth.
For any holes or loose areas of damaged stucco, you’ll need to replace the metal mesh that is necessary for stucco adhesion. This can be done with a hammer and cold chisel, but it’s best to hire a professional to ensure that you are not damaging the underlying wood or wire lath supports any further. Once the replacement is in place, you can then apply a new coat of stucco, following the directions on the label. Make sure that you match the texture of the existing stucco.
Structural Damage
Besides the cosmetic damage that results from water absorption, ignoring the signs of water damage can also result in structural problems and health risks like mold. Addressing these issues promptly can protect the integrity of your home and ensure that your stucco lasts longer. While the steps listed below can help to repair minor cracks and holes in your stucco, if you suspect more extensive or structural damage, it’s always best to consult a professional for assistance.
Surface Preparation
Brush off loose paint with a wire brush or broom and rinse away any dust or debris with a lightly water-dampened rag. Then, use a hammer and chisel to break up or scrape off the loose stucco and make sure to not damage the wood or wire lath further.
If you decide to paint your stucco after the repair process, it’s important to find an exact match of color. If you can, take a sample of your original paint or the damaged area to a local paint store to match it. You may need to apply a masonry primer before the finish coat, depending on the condition of the old paint or the extent of the water damage.
Moisture Test
A moisture meter is an excellent tool for determining the extent of water damage behind your stucco. This will reveal whether your problem is caused by trapped humidity, a problem with the drainage system, or even structural problems.
To prevent further damage, you’ll want to protect windows, doors, trim, plants, and other adjacent surfaces with plastic sheeting. This will prevent accidental splatters of the stucco mix or other repair materials in these areas.
Once the repaired area has dried, you’ll want to make sure that it’s properly sealed. Then, to minimize future moisture infiltration, you’ll need to seal any cracks and gaps. You can use caulk for this purpose, or more modern alternatives such as an Exterior Insulating and Finishing System (EIFS).
As with any type of DIY project, it’s always a good idea to check with your local building codes before attempting any stucco repairs on your own. In many areas, this means getting a building permit before starting the work. In addition, working with wet stucco can be dangerous and should only be done by experienced professionals.