Stucco Repair Philadelphia is a valuable service that maintains the appearance and integrity of your home. Stucco contractors are trained and experienced in repairing, cleaning, and restoring stucco surfaces.
It’s important to address even minor stucco damage right away. Otherwise, it could lead to mold and moisture intrusion.
Before starting, inspect the damage to determine its cause. Then, cover windows, doors, trim, plants, and other adjacent areas with plastic sheeting to prevent accidental splatters.
Cost
Stucco Repair is typically less expensive than remediation, but it still requires significant work. It involves thoroughly inspecting the entire structure, including the underlying wood lath. This will uncover any damage that needs to be addressed before the stucco can be repaired properly. The cost of materials can add up to a significant sum, especially if a new vapor barrier and metal lath need to be installed in addition to the stucco itself. Depending on the size of the project and the extent of the underlying damage, the total cost can be anywhere from $20 to $50 per square foot.
Structural damage to a home’s exterior stucco can be due to a variety of issues, such as faulty windows, improper flashing, and rotting wooden lath. While many homeowners are able to address these issues themselves, some are better off hiring a professional. The right company can help homeowners understand the process and the costs involved in both repairs and remediation.
The difference between a stucco repair and a stucco remediation is important to understand. A repair fixes the damage that’s visible to the homeowner. It’s often more cost effective than a complete remediation job, but it won’t fix the underlying problems that could lead to further damage in the future.
Remediation fixes the underlying problem that’s causing the damage. It’s generally more expensive than a repair, but it will ensure that the damaged stucco won’t continue to deteriorate in the future. A home’s exterior can suffer from a variety of issues, such as house settling, extreme weather, and seismic activity. These issues can all cause moisture to become trapped behind the stucco, leading to costly damage.
While some people are tempted to choose a repair option, it’s generally a good idea to opt for a remediation job instead. A repair will only fix the immediate damage and won’t prevent the moisture from seeping into the walls again in the future. The underlying problems will likely return, resulting in more extensive and costly damage. It’s best to call a professional as soon as you notice any signs of moisture damage.
Time
Stucco repair is a complex process that requires skill and expertise. A professional stucco company is best equipped to perform the repairs and address underlying problems that can lead to further damage to your home. In general, the process can take up to three weeks to complete. However, this depends on the extent of the damage and how large your house is. A smaller home can be repaired in less time than a larger house with extensive stucco damage.
Before any work is done on your home, you will need to conduct a thorough inspection of the stucco to determine the level of damage. The inspection will include a physical examination of the cracks and any other damage that you can see. It will also involve checking the moisture level in your walls using a moisture meter. Once the inspection is completed, you will be able to make an informed decision on how to proceed with the repair.
During the inspection, you should check for the following:
Hairline Cracks
The first step in repairing stucco is to assess the severity of the damage. You will want to know if the cracks are surface-level, or if they extend deeper into the wall and indicate more significant deterioration. You will also want to determine whether the cracks are due to building settling or if they are caused by moisture intrusion.
Staining
Staining on stucco is a clear sign of water damage. It can manifest as a hazy white substance or as a dark blotch on the surface of your stucco. It is essential to check for staining, especially around windows and doors, where water may be improperly redirected and collect behind the stucco.
A good way to prevent moisture from entering your home is by properly waterproofing the stucco. DRYLOK Fast Plug Hydraulic Cement is a great option for this. This product creates a high-quality seal and eliminates efflorescence to protect the structure against moisture infiltration. It also provides a great substrate for paint and sealants. This will help to protect the integrity of your stucco and extend its life.
Materials
Stucco is a mix of cement, sand, and lime that’s applied to the exterior walls of buildings. It’s a durable and attractive material, but it’s also susceptible to damage from weather and other factors. If you notice cracks in your stucco, it’s important to act quickly. Otherwise, they’ll worsen and lead to structural damage. Fortunately, there are ways to repair stucco cracks effectively and affordably.
First, make sure that the area is clean and dry before starting a stucco repair. Moisture can interfere with the bonding process and make the repair less effective. A thorough cleaning and drying will prepare the crack for a smooth application of the repair compound.
The next step is to mix the repair compound according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A peanut butter-like consistency is ideal for a smooth application. Aim to apply the compound in a thin layer over the crack. A thick layer will be difficult to smooth and may result in an uneven finish.
When the first coat has cured, apply a second coat to fill any remaining gaps. This step will give the repair additional strength and ensure that it matches the texture of the surrounding stucco.
Finally, paint or finish the repaired area. Make sure to match the color and texture for a uniform look. A well-applied second coat will make the repair look less noticeable.
Although repairing stucco cracks is relatively easy, it’s vital to do so before the problem worsens. Even small cracks can become structural problems if moisture seeps in. The longer you wait to call a professional, the more expensive it will be to complete the repairs. To avoid costly repairs in the future, contact a stucco specialist today!
Safety
Like all building materials, stucco requires regular maintenance to prevent the accumulation of cracks and damage that detract from its beauty and compromise its performance. Stucco is a popular choice for residential and commercial exteriors because of its durability and attractive appearance. However, it is not immune to wear and tear. As a result, over time, minor cracks may appear and moisture infiltration may occur. This moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, wood rot, and structural damage. If not addressed promptly, moisture can also lead to a weakened structure that is susceptible to collapse.
Fortunately, these problems can be prevented with routine inspections and prompt repairs. In addition to catching small problems before they become severe, these inspections can also help homeowners spot energy-efficient opportunities that are hiding under existing stucco. Stucco is designed to repel moisture, but if cracks or holes allow water to penetrate the wall surface, moisture can cause mold and wood rot inside the walls. Moisture infiltration can also rot the wooden beams that support the structure of the wall and lead to the partial or complete collapse of the wall.
Stucco cracks and holes can be caused by a variety of factors, including settling of the building, temperature fluctuations, and the natural expansion and contraction of stucco materials. In many cases, these minor cracks will not cause any significant damage and can be repaired with a quality caulking product or elastomeric paint. However, if left unattended, these cracks can widen over time, allowing moisture to seep into the wall and cause structural damage.
To perform a Stucco Repair, first, the area must be cleaned of loose dirt and debris. A wire brush or chisel can be used to open up cracks to help the patching material adhere. Once the area is clean, a waterproof caulking product is applied to seal the holes and cracks. Next, a finish coat is applied to match the original texture of the wall. This step is critical, because if the new coating does not blend with the old one, it will not be effective as a barrier against moisture.