5 Important Things You Need To Know About Stucco Repair 

According to the Survey of Construction (SOC) by the Census Bureau, stucco has been ranked the most popular siding material for newly built single-family homes in the United States for four years in a row.  

28% of all surveyed homes in 2021 were stucco-clad, with vinyl siding coming in at 26%. Fiber cement and brick took the third and fourth spots at 21% and 18%, respectively.  

The combination of extended durability and aesthetic appeal makes stucco the most preferable wall siding option. Besides, stucco stands out for its ease of customization.  

But unlike any siding material, stucco can experience wear over time. And when that happens, you’ll naturally want to repair the damaged sections and restore your home to its former glory.  

In this article, we shall highlight the five critical stucco repair facts you probably didn’t know about. 

1. Stucco Repair Isn’t a Service You’ll Require Every Other Month

We’ve already hinted at durability as one of the outstanding benefits of stucco as a siding material.  

A Department of Energy study found that stucco has a remarkable service life of 100 years. That’s considerably longer than vinyl and brick siding, both of which may need replacing after 50 – 70 years.  

However, stucco’s durability ultimately depends on workmanship and the type of materials used. That underscores the significance of working with an experienced stucco repair company in your area.  

Remember you should prefer only a local stucco repair company as they know the conditions of your area very well and are easily approachable. For instance, if you reside in Philadelphia, you must opt for the best Philadelphia stucco repair company.   

Besides, even the most professionally installed stucco wall will wear over time. Gradual wear may result from the following factors; 

• Impact Damage – This occurs when a hard object smashes into your stucco wall at high speeds. 

• Differential Settlement – This occurs when a building’s foundation unevenly settles into the ground. 

• Water Ingress – Results from gradual water damage to stucco walls. 

• Extreme Temperatures – Alternating heating and cooling can also reduce stucco’s durability. 

2. Stucco Repairs Are Easier (And Cheaper) If Undertaken Early Enough

Like most home renovations, stucco-clad walls are easier and cheaper to repair before the damages take root. To do that, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with common signs of stucco damage.  

Cracking is one of the tell-tale signs that something is out of whack with your stucco siding. Stucco cracks can take on different shapes and patterns, depending on the underlying cause. They may also be concentrated on specific spots or spread throughout the surface of the wall.  

Dampness is another reliable indicator of stucco damage. While it’s normal for your stucco to retain moisture after a rainstorm, dampness that lingers on for weeks later may suggest groundwater intrusion or leaking plumbing fixtures.  

Other warning signs of stucco damage include missing chips or chunks of stucco and window caulk gapping. 

3. Stucco Repair Costs Varies From One Project to Another

As you shall find, stucco renovation costs aren’t cast in stone.  

The actual amount you’ll pay to get your stucco siding repaired depends on the extent of damage. While a small crack on an isolated spot may not cost much to fix, you’ll pay significantly more to replace missing chunks of stucco.  

The type of stucco material and finish also determines stucco renovation costs. Certain materials require skilled and technical workmanship to fix, which can increase the repair costs.  

Other factors affecting stucco renovation costs include your property’s location and accessibility. 

4. Stucco Repair Is Better Left To the Pros

The promise of saving some bucks may have you embark on a DIY stucco repair. However, stucco renovation is a specialized service that’s better left to professionals.  

For starters, professional stucco technicians possess the technical know-how required to safely use stucco repair tools and equipment. Besides, a stucco repair expert will instantly tell quality materials from counterfeits or substandard ones. This can guarantee superior workmanship and durable results.  

Obviously, not every company that markets itself as a “stucco expert” fits the bill. So, it pays to tread cautiously while looking for the right stucco technician.  

First, ask the contractor to show proof of a valid license and home renovation insurance. The technician should also visit your property and assess the scope of work before issuing you with a quote. Don’t forget to inquire about their work methodology, project turnaround time, and warranty. 

5. Stucco Repair Technicians Follow an Elaborate Work Methodology

It could happen that your stucco-clad wall has only developed a single crack, and you’ve opted to fix the issue before it spreads to other areas. Well, you deserve a pat on the back for being proactive.  

However, note that stucco repair experts typically follow elaborate work methodologies, regardless of the extent of the damage.  

While the actual steps may vary slightly, most stucco repairs follow the below procedure; 

• Removing the damaged stucco. 

• Installing a mesh or metal lath in the exposed area. 

• Applying the first stucco coat, also known as the scratch coat. 

• Applying the second coat and smoothing it out. 

• Laying the final coat and removing excess material. 
• Texturing the outer coat and painting it if necessary. 

Wrap Up 

There goes our top stucco repair facts. Although we’ve already highlighted it, it’s important to emphasize the significance of enlisting professional services for all your stucco repair needs.  

Working with a licensed stucco technician is the surest way to identify the underlying causes of stucco damage and prescribe the right interventions. Besides, you’re guaranteed quality workmanship and long-lasting results.