Stucco Repair Philadelphia consists of sealing or repairing holes and cracks found in the stucco itself. It is a good option for surface level damage that does not involve mold or water damage to sheathing and framing.
Damp looking stucco, especially around windows, is a sign that moisture intrusion may be present. Moisture problems will only get worse if not addressed immediately.
Stucco is a beautiful and durable siding option for homes, but it’s not immune to wear and tear. Like all exterior surfaces, stucco needs to be properly maintained and repaired to keep it looking its best and functioning at its best. Cracks, stains, discoloration and other damage are not only unsightly, but they can also indicate underlying issues that require professional attention. If left untreated, these problems can escalate into more serious structural damage to the building envelope.
Small cracks in stucco can be easily fixed with caulking. Using a caulking gun, apply a caulk designed for use with stucco and smooth it out with a trowel to ensure it blends in with the surrounding surface. It’s important to allow the caulk to cure undisturbed for 24 hours, as this will give it a chance to properly set and harden, ensuring a long-lasting repair.
For larger cracks, a stucco repair contractor should be called in to help troubleshoot and decide the proper course of action. Cantor recommends that homeowners take a walk around their homes once or twice a month to look for damage, such as cracked or chipped stucco, holes, buckling or bubbling. It’s especially important to look up at your home from the ground to check for any bowed or leaning areas.
If the cracks are hairline, they can be fixed with a simple patching and painting. First, the cracks should be cleaned and brushed to remove any loose debris. Next, the crack should be primed with a product such as Smith & Co. Damp Concrete Primer (DCP), which is mixed with water to create a tan emulsion. This priming will help the caulk stick to the crack.
Finally, the crack should be patched with a stucco patching mix that is either pre-mixed and ready to trowel on or conventional stucco repair mix that can be mixed in a wheelbarrow or plastic tray according to manufacturer instructions. After the patch is applied, it should be troweled to match the texture of the surrounding stucco and left to cure for another 24 hours.
Structural Damage
Stucco’s durability and insulation qualities add value to buildings, but over time it can develop certain issues that must be addressed promptly. These problems may not only reduce the value of a home but also increase the cost of maintenance and repair. Detecting stucco damage in its early stages is critical to protecting the integrity of walls and preventing moisture infiltration that can lead to serious structural problems.
The most common sign of stucco damage is the appearance of cracks. While small hairline cracks are normal, it’s important to watch for larger cracks or widespread cracking. These can signal a major problem with the foundation or other structural problems within the building. Water stains and discoloration on the surface are another indication of moisture infiltration. If left untreated, this can lead to rot within the wall and a collapsed structure.
When moisture seeps behind the stucco, it can erode the wood support beams that hold up the walls and other portions of a building. This can cause a collapse of the entire structure or even other parts of the house. This can also rot the interior of the building and lead to health issues for residents.
Stucco repair is a complex process that involves meticulously assessing the condition of the stucco and identifying the source of moisture infiltration. Removing the damaged area and addressing the underlying problem will help to prevent future moisture infiltration. This may involve waterproofing, removing and replacing the damaged materials, or improving ventilation to decrease moisture buildup.
Many homeowners attempt to repair stucco themselves to save money but this can be a mistake. For example, covering a hole in the stucco with duct tape will not stop the leak but will instead make it worse. Hiring a professional who is experienced in stucco applications will ensure that all repairs are made properly the first time, saving homeowners from expensive repairs in the future.
For historic stucco, it’s particularly important to understand the history of the construction and the materials used for the original work. This is to ensure that the repair is carried out in a way that is compatible with the historical materials and does not exacerbate any deterioration that has already occurred. For example, using hard cementitious materials in the repair will increase the rate of deterioration since these are incompatible with the lime based render used for historic stucco.
Mold and Mildew
Stucco can withstand a lot of damage, but if moisture gets behind the surface, mold and mildew will begin to grow. If you notice a musty smell, stains, or discoloration, call a stucco remediation company immediately. Mold can lead to a number of health issues, including headaches, allergic reactions, and respiratory damage. If the mold is allowed to spread, it can also damage the integrity of the stucco and cause further deterioration.
Moisture behind the stucco can be caused by a variety of factors, such as flooding from heavy rains or incorrect installation. Moisture can get into gaps between the stucco and wood framing, through loose or broken window frames or doors, and even through cracks. Moisture can also be a result of a home being located in a humid or rainy climate, which accelerates the wear and tear on stucco.
The best way to prevent mold and mildew from growing on your stucco is to keep up with regular maintenance inspections, which should include checking for cracks and other problems. Small hairline cracks can be sealed with a caulking compound, which will stop them from widening and allowing moisture to seep through. For larger cracks, it is best to consult a stucco professional.
Another thing to look for during an inspection is the condition of exterior weather barriers and flashing. These will need to be replaced or repaired as needed to ensure that water is not being allowed to penetrate the stucco and into your home.
Remediation is a more expensive service than simple repairs, and it’s understandable that homeowners may not want to invest in this unless they need to. However, continuing to postpone remediation will only lead to skyrocketing repair costs in the future.
Remediation is a more in-depth service than simple repairs and involves digging down through the stucco to find and fix the underlying issue that’s causing the deterioration. This can be as simple as repairing a hole in the wall, or it can involve inserting probes into suspected areas of moisture to take a reading and determine how extensive the problem is.
Water Damage
Stucco is a beautiful, durable material that offers many benefits for homes and buildings. However, like any other material, it can be damaged by moisture and water. The resulting damage can result in unsightly spots, mold and mildew, or structural damage to the home or building. If the cause of the water damage is not addressed quickly, it can lead to costly repairs or even a full replacement.
One of the most common causes of stucco damage is water leaks that go unnoticed and allow moisture to get behind the walls. A professional inspection can reveal the extent of the problem, which may include a leaking roof or faulty plumbing. In some cases, the cause of the water damage to the stucco may be covered by homeowners insurance.
If you are concerned about your stucco, it is important to walk around the outside of your home once a month and inspect it for chips, cracks, holes, buckling or bubbling. It is also a good idea to use a ladder to check the upper levels of your home, as this is where moisture can accumulate. If you notice any signs of moisture damage, a professional can use a moisture meter to determine the extent of the moisture and recommend a suitable repair solution.
Other signs of water damage to stucco include damp looking areas, especially after a rainstorm, and stains or discoloration on the surface of the stucco or interior walls. Peeling paint can also be an indicator of moisture problems, as well as a musty smell inside the house.
When performing stucco repairs, it is important to follow all applicable safety procedures and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). A moisture meter and a thermal imaging camera are useful tools for identifying the level of moisture in the stucco before starting the repair process. Using these tools will help to ensure that the repair is successful and that the problem is completely resolved. It is also a good idea to conduct a quality assurance check of the repaired area with the moisture meter and thermal imaging camera once the work has been completed.