For ages, stucco has remained a preferred choice for building exteriors due to its curb appeal and durability. The fine mixture of Portland cement, lime, and sand forms an incredible blend of aesthetically pleasing siding material. Most properties in the Bronx, Queens, Manhattan, Long Island, Brooklyn, and Richmond Hill have stucco sidings because of their excellent resistance to climatic changes and chemical exposure.
However, your stucco does require adequate maintenance to prolong its service life. Despite the strength and sturdiness of stucco, it deteriorates over a period. It necessitates stucco repairs Bronx to address damages and prevent their severity.
As we speak of repairing stucco, you must understand that this cementitious material with a wooden lath or metal mesh base demands extensive precision and expertise during its repair. It is a complicated process, and you must hire a professional contractor.
In this blog, we have listed the things you must consider while undergoing stucco repair. So, let’s have a look.
Types of Stucco Damage
Before you hire stucco repair companies, understand the various types of stucco damage:
- Discoloration or Stains- When stucco is exposed to excessive moisture, it often leads to stains and discoloration. You may notice fading paint or brown or black stains. These stains generally indicated corrosion in the metal mesh or rot in the wooden lath. The black stains typically imply the growth of molds and mildew. In all the scenarios, it is a severe problem and demands an immediate fix. When left untreated, it can result in critical structural damage.
- Cracks- You can hardly spot any stucco without cracks! It is one of the most predominant problems in every stucco work. Cracks can appear in all forms- multiple hairline cracks or large noticeable cracks. Temperature fluctuations and moisture exposure are the fundamental causes of crack formation. These cracks expand over time, threatening the structural stability of stucco. Therefore, you must address the problem as soon as you spot it.
- Spalling- Generally, corrosion, freeze-thaw cycles, and chemical reactions are responsible for stucco spalling. Exposure to fire can also be a cause of spalling. It makes your stucco weak as it loses its bonding capability.
- Bulging- Not only bulges are unsightly, but they also indicate trapped moisture within the stucco. As water reacts with stucco materials, warping is the most common effect. Hence, bulges appear. You need expert stucco repair in the Bronx to get rid of bulges.
Repairing Stucco
So, you have learnt the general types and causes of stucco damage. Now, let’s come to the repair process. So, what are the things to keep in mind during stucco repair?
- Always hire a professional to perform a stucco repair job. Fixing stucco is not a DIY project because it requires immense knowledge and experience in handling the tools and implementing the techniques. Professionals have expertise in the field, and they are aware of the best practices for long-term results.
- A stucco inspection is mandatory to identify the extent and source of damage. Until you address the source, the problem will resurface after a period.
- For excellent stucco repair services, always ensure to remove the damaged areas before applying a new coat or fixing your stucco. The damaged sections are weak and can expand if not removed. Your repair job won’t last long.
- Never ignore surface preparation! Apart from removing old stucco, clean the projected area to attain a smooth surface. It will help in better bonding, enhanced longevity, and flawless finish.
- Lastly, always let your stucco dry completely before applying a new layer to eliminate the chances of cracks, bubbles, or poor finishing.
So, it’s time now to give your stucco a better look and life!
