Stucco is a complex material that requires a professional to install. It is applied in layers, making it a time-consuming project that adds to the overall cost of your home.
The first step in a stucco installation is lathing. This is done with a combination of asphalt-infused paper and one of a number of manufactured plastic-based sheets that are designed to be water-resistant. Contact Dryvit Stucco Installation now!
Whether you are considering having your existing stucco refinished or installing a new system, it is important to select the right contractor for the job. Look for a company with a good track record and years of experience. Ideally, the company should also be licensed and insured in your state. You can check this information by searching online for your city’s building department or Better Business Bureau.
Structural integrity refers to the ability of a structure to support its own weight and resist the loads that it will be subjected to over time. It is a combination of many factors, including proper connections, slab design, beams, columns, walls and the lateral force resisting system. To maintain structural integrity, it is important that these elements seamlessly connect to each other.
The stability of a stucco home is also determined by the integrity of its foundation. If the foundation is sinking into incompetent, non-load-bearing soil, it can cause serious problems for your house. The movement of the soil causes stress on the foundation, which then transfers to the framing and drywall. This pressure can cause a foundation to crack and crumble.
In addition, water damage can rot the wooden beams that support the walls and other portions of the building. If the rotting goes unchecked, it can lead to partial or complete collapses of the wall. This can put your family’s safety at risk and is a major concern.
To prevent water damage to a stucco wall, a barrier must be installed. This barrier is typically an asphalt-saturated paper or one of a variety of manufactured plastic-based sheets known as building wraps. The barrier must protect the wood framing from moisture and rain, while allowing water vapor to escape.
The proper installation of control joints is also crucial for the integrity of a stucco wall. These joints are designed to allow the material to expand and contract without tearing. Mistakes in the spacing and installation of these joints can be disastrous, leading to extensive cracking and damage. The correct placement of these joints will minimize the amount of cracking and other damage to a stucco wall.
Curb appeal
When it comes to selling a home, first impressions count. A cluttered, unkempt exterior may make potential buyers drive right by, while a well-maintained and attractive facade might inspire their curiosity to see what’s inside. This is why it’s essential to put in the time and effort to create a curb appeal that makes a lasting impression on anyone who crosses your property’s threshold.
Whether you’re preparing your home to sell or you simply want to add some pizazz, there are plenty of affordable and effective ways to boost your home’s curb appeal. From sprucing up your front steps to painting the exterior, these budget-savvy upgrades can give you a fresh new look without breaking the bank.
Stucco is a popular choice for home cladding because of its visual appeal and insulation benefits. But it’s important to know the nitty-gritty details of how to properly apply and cure stucco to ensure a long-lasting finish. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get started.
If you’re not sure where to start, consult a stucco expert to ensure your project is executed correctly. A professional will provide you with detailed instructions and recommended products based on the type of stucco used. They will also help you choose the best color to match your property’s style.
One common mistake homeowners make when applying stucco is driving screws into the structure’s surface. This can cause the screws to pull out or even crack the stucco. To prevent this, it’s important to use pilot holes before inserting the screw. Pilot holes should be drilled halfway into the studs and spaced in vertical intervals of 5-6 inches. To insert the screw, align it with the pilot hole and apply steady pressure while turning clockwise. Remember not to over-tighten the screw; doing so can cause it to develop stress points and crack over time.
Once the stucco is cured, it’s time to put on the finishing touches. If you’re planning to sell your home, painting the stucco can improve its durability and increase its resale value. Alternatively, you can seal the surface to protect it from moisture and stains.
Durability
Stucco is a durable and weather-resistant option for reimagining the exterior of your home or business. It’s resistant to fungus, insect infestation and rot, making it an excellent choice for protecting and beautifying your property while also increasing your home value.
Its durability also helps to reduce the cost of maintenance and repairs, as it’s a more resilient material than many other siding options. However, like any exterior surface, stucco requires periodic inspections and repairs to address potential issues such as cracks, water intrusion or rot. In addition, like other exterior materials such as wood or vinyl siding, stucco can be damaged by hail, wind-blown debris and tree limbs.
The durability of stucco depends on several factors including quality installation, climate and the type of traditional or synthetic stucco used. Traditional stucco is made of a mixture of cement, sand and lime that is applied in a layer directly over a solid substrate. It is typically textured for appearance and can be colored or stained. Synthetic stucco, on the other hand, is an energy-efficient insulation and finish system based on acrylic resins and polymers. It is commonly used in the US Southwest and is a popular alternative to traditional stucco.
Both types of stucco can be installed over a variety of structures, from frame construction to concrete masonry and precast concrete. Lath, either metal or woven wire, is commonly used to provide a base for the plaster. Lath is available in a wide range of sizes and shapes, so it’s important to choose the right one for your structure.
Stucco and EIFS cladding are highly durable when they’re constructed by skilled professionals. If the process isn’t handled properly, you may face cracks, moisture leaks and other costly repairs down the road. To avoid these problems, it’s important to work with a team that understands the intricacies of these unique materials and knows how to install them correctly.
Maintenance
Stucco doesn’t require a lot of maintenance, but it is important to regularly inspect the material and address any problems as they arise. Ignoring small cracks or damage can lead to more extensive and costly repairs down the line. If you see any issues with your stucco, it is important to call a stucco contractor for a repair estimate right away.
Regularly cleaning your stucco is also important to help prevent stains from mildew and mold growth. A masonry cleaner that is safe for stucco surfaces will work well to remove dirt and grime from the surface. In addition, it is a good idea to keep bushes, trees, and other landscaping features properly trimmed to avoid damaging the stucco with their roots or trapping moisture against the wall’s surface.
Moisture infiltration is one of the most common issues affecting stucco. In humid conditions, moisture can seep into small cracks or crevices and cause the material to deteriorate over time. This can lead to rot and structural damage, which is not only unsightly but can also be hazardous to your family’s health.
To protect against moisture damage, your stucco should be well-insulated and flashed. For example, roof rakes that intersect walls should be fitted with a kick-out flashing to protect the wall from water runoff, and windows and doors need pan flashing at sills and Z-flashing with end dams to prevent moisture from building up behind the stucco.
Your stucco should be repainted and resealed every few years. The paint and sealant act as protective layers, stopping some of the dirt and moisture from absorbing into the stucco. However, over time paint and sealant will degrade or wear off, leaving the stucco exposed to weathering and other damage.
To extend the life of your stucco, it is a good idea to use a high-quality breathable masonry paint and to apply a waterproof sealant. By performing these simple tasks, you can extend the lifespan of your stucco installation and save money on expensive repairs down the line.