:109 Stucco care

Welcome to today’s 1:5:10:365 Tip for becoming a better steward for our home and planet.

1:5:10:109 EcoTip: Homes with stucco exteriors require some special care to help insure durability. Clean, inspect and maintain stucco exterior homes at least once every year.

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 Additional Information

Suggested Review – :075, :076, :105, :106, :107, :108

 

Stucco Cracks should be monitored and filled when they exceed 1/8 inch. Don’t use caulk on cracks, it is important they be filled with an appropriate stucco filler. In 1:5:10:075 I mentioned photographing cracks to be able to monitor if they are changing. If cracking exceeds that from normal settling, it is important to find out why and correct the condition. Your home may be on expansive soil (1:5:10:076).

Don’t penetrate the stucco in order to attach planters, patios, sunscreens, fasteners or other items to the home. This may damage the drainage plane and create a pathway for excess water to enter the wall cavities creating expensive damage. Any such changes should be left to professionals that warrent their work.

Caulk windows, doors, dryer vents, electrical boxes and other penetrations every year with a 25 year silicon caulk.

Historic stucco is very different from today’s applications. For older stucco buildings the National Parks Service has prepared Preservation Brief 22 with some great information.

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