Stucco can last for a very, very long time and is considered to be a classical look for the exterior of homes. But, like other exterior materials, problems arise after some years. If you notice cracks, discoloration, or any other indication of damage on your stucco, then it may be time to take remediation measures.
This blog will walk you through the entire process of stucco remediation. Regardless of the problem you are facing, understanding the remediation process can help you undertake the project much more confidently. Have a look!
Table of Contents
Initial Inspection and Assessment
Any stucco remediation project will first require a detailed evaluation of your home’s exterior. A professional will examine your home for damage and signs such as cracks, color changes, bulges, mold, or mildew.
They will pin down why there is a problem, be it infiltration of water, poor installation issues, or plain old natural deterioration. All this serves to develop a custom-made remediation plan that ensures addressing all the underlying problems.
Planning and Preparation
After inspection, the next step will be planning and preparation. It consists of obtaining the permits required and establishing the protective measures that will keep your home and things around it safe during remediation.
The professionals will present steps to be taken with timelines and materials needed. Proper planning gives a smooth, efficient flow to a remediation process with little disruption to daily life.
Removing Damaged Stucco
Now that a plan is in place, the actual work of stucco removal will begin. The process is carried out very carefully to ensure that no more damage is caused to the structure below or behind it.
The team will carefully remove affected areas, ensuring safe disposal of the resulting debris. This exposes any hidden issues that might have been the cause of the damage and allows the professionals to address them.
Repairing Underlying Issues
Once the damaged stucco is removed, the process of repair will begin. This may include repairs to structural problems, like damaged framing or insulation, and dealing with sources for moisture that made the stucco fail in the first place.
It is very vital to ensure that these problems are completely fixed because if it’s well done, it will prevent damages in the future and extend the life of the new stucco installed.
Application of New Stucco
The repair work is followed by application of new stucco. It starts with the selection of the right stucco. There is more to a stucco mix than randomly selecting one. Especially, if you want a durable and beautiful finish. Stucco remediation professionals typically apply three layers of stucco.
One for the base, one for strengthening, and one as the finishing coat. All of these are applied carefully to ensure they bond properly and the surface is smooth and even.
Curing and Finishing
One thing you should know about stucco is that it needs time to cure. This means allowing it to dry completely and become hard. This may take up to several days depending upon the weather conditions.
During this time, you should regularly mist it to prevent cracks. After it has completely cured, you can add finishing touches by sealing and painting it for a more attractive appearance.
Final Inspection and Clean-Up
Thorough inspection and clean-up are the final steps of the stucco remediation procedure. The professionals will check to make sure that the stucco has been applied correctly and meets the quality standards.
They will also clean the area of operation by collecting debris, tools, and equipment that might be lying around your backyard. This is a very important step in ensuring complete remediation and making your home look brand new again.
Maintaining Your New Stucco
Routine maintenance is the key to preserving the beauty and longevity of your new stucco. Now this is a home renovation project that you can undertake yourself. It involves periodically inspecting it for cracks, holes, and any other early signs of damage.
You should also regularly clean it to remove dirt and mildew that might build up. It is also important to caulk minor damage to stop it from progressing further. Preventative measures, such as proper drainage and sealing, can also help safeguard a stucco from future problems.
Conclusion
Stucco remediation might sound like a huge job, knowing what takes place really makes it much less daunting. From the initial evaluation to the final clean-up, every step has been put in place to have your home looking fantastic and perfectly protected. Regular maintenance after remediation works well in keeping the stucco at bay for many years to come.
If you feel your house needs stucco remediation, don’t hesitate to contact a professional. You’ll save yourself a lot of future headaches by addressing the problem now.
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