Stucco Repair Charleston SC is repairing damage or deterioration to existing stucco surfaces. The method includes a thorough inspection by stucco remediation professionals to identify the extent of the problem and any underlying issues.

Once these underlying issues are addressed, the rest of the process can be completed. This includes mixing stucco according to manufacturer instructions and applying it to cracks or holes.

Stucco is a popular material for exterior and interior walls due to its durability, low maintenance requirements, and striking appearance. However, as with any other wall material, it can suffer from cracks and holes that require attention. When these problems appear, they must be repaired promptly to avoid further damage and costly repairs.

Hairline cracks in stucco are narrow fractures that run 1/16th of an inch or less in width, and they often have a wispy or “hairlike” appearance. These types of cracks are typically caused by improper mud mixture, new home settlement, seismic movement or foundation settlement. These cracks aren’t considered structural and can be repaired with a simple patching compound.

Larger cracks or holes in stucco are more serious and may indicate a structural problem with your home’s foundation. Often, these cracks will develop at the intersection of vertical walls or at the upper corners of window and door frames. They also can occur at the joints between wood framing and concrete or brick masonry. These cracks are not only unsightly but they allow moisture and water to penetrate the wall and cause significant damage that requires costly repair.

To repair larger cracks in stucco, first use a cold chisel and hammer to widen the crack at least a quarter inch. Make sure that the crack is widened at the base and on both sides of the hole. This will help to ensure that the patching compound is able to fill and seal the crack completely. Next, clean the area with a wire brush and prepare it by removing any loose debris. Once the crack is prepared, apply a layer of stucco patching compound to the inside of the hole and trowel it smooth to blend with the rest of the wall surface. Allow the patching compound to dry and then paint over it using your preferred color of stucco.

To fix smaller cracks, first use a putty knife or trowel to apply a thin layer of stucco patching compound over the cracked area. Apply a piece of stucco wire mesh over the compound to hold it in place. After the patching compound dries, use a sanding block to smooth it and prepare it for painting.

Water Damage

Water damage to stucco isn’t just unsightly; it can be a sign of bigger issues. Moisture in your stucco can deteriorate the integrity of the material and allow mold to grow, leading to further structural problems for your home. If you see signs of moisture intrusion in your stucco, call a professional right away to address the problem before it gets worse.

Often, the first indication of moisture intrusion is a small crack in the stucco. These can range from thin hairline cracks to larger fissures. If you find cracks, take note of their size and location on the wall. Look for discoloration as well, as yellowing or brown staining may indicate water seepage. Also, be on the lookout for loose or bulging stucco, which can indicate separation between the stucco and its wire lath support. Finally, listen for a hollow sound when you tap on the surface of the stucco. This sound suggests that the stucco is delaminating and is allowing moisture to penetrate underneath.

Once moisture seeps into your stucco, it can cause significant damage in a very short amount of time. A small crack can become a major problem in just a few weeks if left untreated. That’s why it’s important to check for these 7 signs of moisture in your stucco and bring in a professional for a quick repair if you notice any.

A professional can use an elastomeric or premixed stucco patch to fill the crack and smooth it out. The patch will then be textured to match the existing texture and blend in with the rest of the stucco. Using coloring pigment in the mix can help achieve a color that matches well, especially if the crack is very noticeable.

In some cases, a major repair may be required to restore the integrity of the stucco wall system. This may involve replacing the wood work, wire lath and sheeting in addition to repairing the stucco. This is a job best left to professionals who do this type of work on a regular basis.

Stains and Discoloration

Stucco provides a protective barrier against the elements, but like all materials, it is susceptible to damage. Fortunately, the vast majority of the time, this damage is not structural in nature and can be corrected rather easily. In fact, oftentimes, stains and discoloration can be avoided entirely by regular cleaning and care.

Staining and discoloration in stucco can be caused by a number of different factors, but the most common cause is dirt or pollution washing onto and staining the surface. Depending on the type of stain and how it is caused, a variety of solutions can be used to remove it. For example, organic borax or Oxiclean might work for oil based stains, vinegar might be effective for mildew or very dilute muratic acid may be helpful for more stubborn problems. Just remember to test the solution on a small area before applying it to an entire wall!

It is also important to note that any time stucco is cleaned, it is vital that it be thoroughly rinsed afterwards. Failure to do so can allow water and contaminants to enter cracks in the stucco, causing mold and mildew. If a homeowner attempts to clean their own stucco and fails to rinse it properly, this can lead to the need for extensive and expensive repairs or replacement.

If a homeowner notices any dark spots on their stucco, it is crucial to hire a professional for a thorough inspection as soon as possible. Stucco contractors can look for any cracks or breaks in the structure that might be allowing water to seep in, which could eventually cause serious and permanent damage to the home.

Additionally, if there are bushes or a tree growing near to the stucco of a home, it is possible that their roots are contributing to the moisture issues in the house. The sugars released by the trees and bushes can fuel mold and mildew growth by creating a tiny microclimate around the walls that raises humidity levels. Stucco contractors can check for these types of problems and recommend any necessary treatments.

Mold

Mold damage in stucco can lead to rot, further cracking and deterioration of the wall material, as well as health issues for home occupants. It is important to inspect and regularly clean stucco surfaces to spot and address mold growth and other signs of moisture damage early on.

If you suspect there is a serious mold problem in your stucco, make sure to protect yourself by wearing gloves and a mask. First, remove as much dirt and debris from the surface as possible by brushing with a stiff-bristled brush. Regularly hosing off your stucco walls with a garden hose can also help to keep them dry and prevent moisture damage from growing.

In cases where mold stains persist, you may need to use a cleaning solution. You can find mold removal solutions that are safe for use on stucco by combining equal parts water and oxygen bleach (bleach that does not contain chlorine). Spray the solution onto the affected areas of your wall and scrub with a stiff-bristle brush to break down and remove any mold. You can rinse the area with clean water afterward to ensure all of the mold and stains have been removed.

If the mold continues to grow or musty odors continue to be present, it is time for professional remediation and a stucco repair. Extensive cracks and holes can also be the cause of severe mold problems in stucco and require expert attention from a contractor.

While there are DIY kits available for small repairs to stucco, it is best to have a professional handle any major structural damage to your home’s exterior. Leaving damaged stucco unchecked can allow moisture to seep behind the material and further erode it, as well as wood framing and windows. Water that can’t escape your home’s exterior will ultimately deteriorate the materials and increase the cost of future repairs. A professional can conduct a moisture inspection to determine the full extent of the damage and prevent costly repairs.