How long does stucco last?
Stucco is one of the top choices when it comes to the type of cladding material used for your residential or commercial building because of its long-lasting durability. Stucco stands up to a lot of physical abuse brought on by outside and weather-related elements, it is able to resist abrasion and is great for hot/cold & wet/dry climates. That being said the longevity of your stucco also depends on the quality of materials used, proper stucco installation and stucco maintenance.
Can you paint stucco?
Yes, you are able to paint stucco, however, you will need to make sure that the paint used is compatible with stucco so that it will provide the right coverage, adhere to it and last a long time. A better option when it comes to coloring your stucco is to use a colored stucco finish. White cement is blended with different pigments that offer a wide variety of options when it comes to choosing the right color for your home or business structure. Keep in mind that should you choose to paint after new stucco installation within the first year it must be primed and painted with high PH paint. It is also advised to follow the guidelines given on how many coats to apply, the timing between coats and what the finished thickness should be once it is completely dry.
How do your repair cracks in stucco?
Cracks in your stucco are virtually inevitable because of foundation shifts and settlement. Most cracks are generally found in the corners of windows and doors and can be repaired pretty easily with patch repair. Patch repair is the simplest and most utilized method when it comes to repairing cracks in stucco. Patch repair involves using a stucco mixture of caulk and cement to repair holes, cracks, and voids found on your stucco. A lot of people choose a DIY method when it comes to stucco repair, but keep in mind it is best to utilize a professional stucco repair service like us here at NoCo Stucco & Stone. Our knowledgable & experienced stucco repair contractors are able to assess the cracks in your stucco to ensure that they can be repaired. In some serious cases, a new stucco installation is needed.
What causes stucco water damage?
While stucco is water-resistant it is not waterproof and thus needs to be protected against water damage. Water damage generally happens because of low-quality stucco installation, stress cracks or improper flashing. Should you start to see early signs of water damage such as bumps appearing on the surface of your stucco, it is best to seek professional stucco repair immediately to prevent deterioration & mold.
What is Flashing your stucco & how does it help to prevent water damage?
Flashing your stucco is very important when installing new stucco to help prevent water damage from the very beginning. Flashing is basically a piece of metal that is attached to the structure before stucco is applied. Because stucco allows water to pass through it, the flashing material helps to keep the water from passing through the joints of the structure. This helps to keep water and moisture at a minimum allowing your stucco to last longer while also helping to prevent water damage. A weep screed is a building accessory also used to help with the drainage of water and is mostly used in conjunction with wood framing. The weep screed is applied to the base of the stucco or wall and placement is determined by stucco & stone industry standards and code.
How do you caulk your stucco when needed?
Caulking is usually applied to specific locations on your structure where your stucco meets another building material. These areas tend to naturally expand and contract at different rates which causes gaps and cracks. Caulking your stucco allows you to fill in these cracks and gaps to prevent further damage from water, mold or other outside & weather-related elements. Acrylic caulking blends the best with stucco making it seamless. Caulking roughly needs to be done about 3-5 times per year and your stucco should be inspected annually by a professional stucco maintenance service.
How does stucco repair or a new stucco installation help to add value to your home & property?
First and foremost stucco is one of the most durable, reliable and long-lasting siding materials that can be used on your home or business structure. It increases the curb appeal of your home/business, requires minimal maintenance if installed properly and is a lot more cost-friendly than other types of sidings. With the many options you have when it comes to the color, texture and detailed design possibilities, stucco allows you to easily change the look of your home or business without a lot of structural changes. It also enhances the insulation of your home or business which can help to lower energy bills throughout the year.