Stucco repair is used to fix surface-level damage. If your stucco has isolated cracks that are not spreading and there is no visible mold or musty odors, repair may be all you need.
However, repair does not address the underlying issues that lead to stucco failure. This can lead to more expensive problems in the future. Contact Stucco Remediation now!
When your stucco starts to show signs of moisture damage, you should act quickly. Moisture damage is one of the most serious problems you can face as a homeowner, and it’s a common cause of mold and mildew growth as well as structural issues. Mold and mildew also leave unsightly stains on your exterior walls. If left untreated, the moisture can eventually seep inside your home and damage drywall and wooden components like framing members.
Stucco is a type of plaster that can be used on the exterior of your home. It is made from a mixture of Portland cement, sand and water, and sometimes includes acrylics or lime to make it more durable. It’s a popular choice for homes in drier climates, where it can help protect the building from harsh weather conditions.
Moisture damage often occurs in the form of efflorescence, which looks like white or hazy streaks or dark blotches on your stucco walls. Efflorescence is caused when the moisture in your home’s plaster seeps through to the surface, leaving behind a chalky residue.
If you notice these stains on your stucco, you should contact a professional immediately to investigate further. They will likely recommend a moisture test, which involves inserting probes into suspect areas of your stucco to check the moisture levels in your wall cavity. They may also recommend a waterproof barrier or installing a rain gutter system to prevent further moisture damage to your home’s exterior.
While repair is cheaper than remediation, it doesn’t solve the underlying issue that’s causing your stucco to deteriorate. It’s best to choose a quality masonry contractor that understands the importance of proper home maintenance and will not attempt to sell you services you don’t need.
When you hire a professional for a stucco remediation, be sure to read reviews and testimonials before making a decision. Choosing the right contractor can save you money in the long run by preventing further costly repairs and avoiding further damage to your home’s structure. Don’t wait to hire a reputable professional, as the longer you delay, the worse your stucco damage will become.
Structural Issues
Stucco is one of the most popular exterior building materials for new homes in Houston, mainly because of its beautiful textured finish and ease of maintenance. Unfortunately, just like any other material, stucco is not indestructible and is susceptible to damage from the weather, mold, and structural issues. If these problems go untreated, they can compromise the structure of your home and cause serious health risks. That’s why it’s important to look for signs of damage and take action right away.
Structural issues that affect a stucco structure can occur due to improper installation, aging of the material, foundation settlement, or water intrusion into the interior of the wall. These problems can cause cracking, crumbling, and damp walls, as well as rotted sheathing and framing, which can lead to the onset of mold and mildew. If not addressed, these issues will only worsen over time and result in more expensive repairs for the homeowner.
Surface-repair techniques such as coating application, crack sealing, and patching are not enough to prevent moisture intrusion. They are akin to putting tape over a hole in a pipe. It will stop the leak for a while, but eventually the pipe is going to have to be replaced completely. Remediation is more costly upfront but it will save homeowners money in the long run as it eliminates the need for ongoing repairs and replacements.
There are several telltale signs that a stucco structure is prone to failure, including dark spots or streaks on the exterior, water stains inside the wall, a musty odor in the home, and high moisture readings on a moisture meter. Recognizing these signs early can allow you to schedule a professional inspection and take the necessary steps to remedy your stucco before it is too late.
A thorough professional inspection of the home will begin with a close examination of the area around the windows, which is the most common location for moisture intrusion in stucco walls. If the inspector finds underlying damage or moisture intrusion in sheathing and framing, they will strip the stucco layers back to the base layer and address any internal sources of damage. Once the problem is fixed, a full-scale remediation will replace the damaged sheathing and framing with resilient James Hardie fiber cement siding.
Mold and Mildew Growth
Mold and mildew growth can be a huge problem for homeowners. Molds thrive on moisture and organic material, both of which are commonly found in stucco walls. This is why it’s important to keep the wall clean of any such materials and to have a regular washing by a professional.
When left unchecked, mold can cause serious issues for the structural integrity of the stucco. This can lead to rot that affects the wooden studs and wall sheathing behind the stucco and can compromise the safety of your home or business. If mold is present in a structure, it’s important to find and destroy the source of the mold before it has a chance to spread and grow.
Stucco that has been impacted by mold or mildew may have a musty smell and appear discolored or stained. When this happens, a complete Stucco Remediation may be required to repair the underlying issue and prevent further damage.
Moisture is an extremely dangerous thing for any structure, particularly a stucco exterior. Mold and rot that gets trapped behind your stucco will eventually damage the wooden studs and wall sheathing and can cause a serious collapse of the entire building. If this is allowed to happen, the cost of repairing the structure could be very high and is unlikely to be covered by homeowner’s insurance.
Having a professional assess the condition of your stucco is the best way to decide what is needed to repair and restore it to full functionality. Trying to do a repair on your own without the proper skills and knowledge will only result in more damage accumulating over time.
Sometimes, simple repairs aren’t enough and the entire stucco must be replaced. There are several signs that replacement is necessary, including cracks that are more than just cosmetic, wall sagging or instability, and water leaks. Replacing the stucco with modern materials can also improve the insulation of your home and reduce energy costs. The sooner you recognize the need for a stucco remediation, the more money and damage you will save in the long run.
Appearance Issues
Stucco is a beautiful building material that can be used in homes or businesses. It can be molded into decorative shapes, and it is resistant to fire and insects. However, over time, moisture can cause a host of issues that affect the appearance of a structure. These issues include cracking and peeling, mildew and mold growth, and wall rot. These issues can make a building appear unsightly and can lead to costly repair or replacement. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to act quickly before the damage worsens.
Taking the time to find a quality stucco contractor can help you avoid expensive repairs in the future. Read online reviews, ask for client references, and schedule an in-person consultation. During the consultation, you can assess a contractor’s professionalism and quality of workmanship. Ask about their process and materials, and make sure to get a detailed estimate and warranty.
While repairing a surface of a stucco structure may seem like an affordable solution, it will not solve any underlying issues. Moisture damage is caused by many different factors, and if you don’t fix the root cause, the problem will keep returning. Remediation is a more comprehensive approach that will correct the underlying problems.
It is also important to watch out for signs of a water intrusion in the stucco. Soft spots in the structure are a common sign of an issue, and you can often see them around windows or corners. This is usually due to water or water damage, and it needs to be addressed as soon as possible.
Another sign of a water issue is if the caulking has dried out or cracked. Caulking is essential for keeping water and other elements out of a home, and if it becomes damaged, it should be replaced immediately. If you notice any of these signs, call a professional as soon as possible to get your stucco remedied and protect your home from serious damages.