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Larger cracks, we’re talking 1/16 of an inch, are cause for concern. If you can slide your credit card into the crack in your stucco, it’s time to seek some professional help. Larger cracks like these can indicate a structural issue that needs to be addressed prior to repairing the stucco.
How much stucco cracking is normal?
Hairline Cracks – Typical stucco cracks that require normal maintenance are hairline cracks less than 1/8 of an inch. These cracks can be stair-stepping on concrete block homes and that’s completely fine.
Are cracks in stucco serious?
The Problems behind Stucco Cracking Hairline cracks aren’t as serious as deep cracks. However, they can provide a pathway for moisture and water to enter into a wall system. Once moisture or water gets inside a wall, it will inevitably cause further damage.
Do hairline cracks need to be repaired in stucco?
So, if you’ve seen cracks in your stucco, when should you repair them? The answer simply is, as soon as possible. Even if you’ve seen a small crack appear, you should attend to it right away. It may only be small now, but before long it could spread and cause more issues down the line.
How much does it cost to repair cracks in stucco?
Stucco repairs cost $8 to 50 per square foot, or $40 to $60 per hour plus materials. On average, homeowners spend $477 to $1,510 on stucco repairs, while DIY stucco repair kits to fix cracks costs $40. Prices depend on the home’s size, the square footage of stucco, and accessibility.
How do you stop a stucco from cracking?
4 Preventative Actions to Control Stucco Cracks thoroughly wet highly absorbent/rough-textured masonry before applying stucco; follow the recommended mix ratios, avoiding cement rich mixes; damp-cure newly applied stucco in hot and dry weather conditions;.
Can you paint over hairline cracks in stucco?
Hairline cracks are anywhere from 1/16 of an inch to 1/8 of an inch wide (typically) and are easily and effectively repaired using caulking and paint, in most cases because it is the most economical approach for most people.
Can stucco cracks cause water damage?
Water damage for stucco siding is highly problematic, and, if left untreated, holds potential for mold. Water damage can also result in cracks around windows and doors. Crumbling stucco and soft spots or indentations can be indications of very serious water damage.
Can I just paint over hairline cracks?
For deeper hairline cracks, you may want to use a filler to fill up the cracks before applying a new layer of paint in the affected area. However, if an extensive area has been affected, you will need to scrape off the paint and then sand the entire area to even out the edges before applying a fresh coat of paint.
How long does stucco last on a house?
Most newer homes with exterior stucco have an acrylic-polymer finish, which will expand and contract with the weather. This keeps cracks to a minimum and means the stucco can easily last up to 50 years before needing to be repaired.
How do you care for exterior stucco?
Here are some tips to maintaining your home’s stucco. Keep it Clean. Just like any exterior, stucco can get dirty pretty easily. Seal it Regularly. When stucco is first applied to your home, it should be sealed. Consider Applying an Elastomeric Coating. Make Repairs Right Away. The Bottom Line.
What is the cost of stucco per square foot?
Stucco siding costs between $5 to $9.58 per square foot on average to install. If you were to apply stucco siding to the average size 1,500 square foot home, you could expect to pay around $10,935 in total installation costs at an average of about $7 per square foot.
How often should stucco be sealed?
If new, stucco can be sealed with a clear concrete/ masonry sealer, which will penetrate into the stucco and stop moisture entrance. These are typically silicone type sealers. While effective, these finishes will usually need to be redone every 4-5 years.
Should new stucco crack?
Stucco is by nature hard and strong, but it is relatively thin and brittle and will crack when subjected to stresses that exceed its tensile strength.
Can new stucco be applied over old stucco?
You can apply new stucco on top of old, so long as the proper measures are taken to ensure the integrity of the new layer. Check the existing stucco for structural integrity. Keep the nozzle at least two feet from the surface of the stucco area. Allow 48 to 72 hours for the stucco to dry.
Is it OK to paint stucco?
So Can You Paint Stucco? The short answer is yes, you can paint stucco! You can paint any type of finish coat, whether it is a traditional (cement based) finish or when using an acrylic type of finish.
How do you fix cracks on the outside of your house?
A filler compound is an effective product to use for larger cracks in plaster that can’t easily be filled with a small line of caulk or layers of concrete epoxy. You can mix your own filler compound or purchase ready-mixed compound form most DIY stores.
Can you caulk cracks in stucco?
There are two main types of caulking that are best for stucco applications and these are for repairing cracks and for using when lathing to seal up certain areas. The two main types that are recommended by most people are an acrylic based caulking and a polyurethane based caulking.
