Repairing Stucco — A Contractor's Services

Stucco that utilizes Portland cement is often used as an exterior or interior finish. Old age, moisture, and inferior materials could necessitate a stucco repair. A contractor will remove loose, hollow stucco and replace it with a Portland cement mixture that is comparable to the intact stucco surfaces that surround the area where damage is located. 

Stucco Properties

Portland cement is used to manufacture stucco. Stucco shares many of the same properties as concrete. A stucco mixture is one that contains cement, water, and an aggregate. The coarseness of an aggregate will affect the roughness of a stucco surface.

Large aggregate pieces that are blended with Portland cement and water will give stucco a sharp texture. Smaller aggregates, including grains of sand, will provide stucco with a smoother surface. The peaks that protrude from stucco are produced with the tools that a siding contractor uses to install the cement mixture. The peaks are what give the stucco a unique appearance and texture.

The Removal Of Damaged Stucco

A stucco contractor may use a lightweight mallet to determine where the stucco is damaged. They can pinpoint the exact area that is compromised, by listening to the pitch that is made when they lightly strike the surface. Some damage may be visually assessed too. If the stucco has an inconsistent texture or color, it may need to be replaced. A laser grading machine that is designed to cut through stucco may be used to remove sections that are damaged.

The Installation Of New Stucco

Stucco that is going to be used to repair a compromised area will need to be anchored securely to the substrate material that will be resting behind the stucco. Before the fresh stucco is applied, it will need to be prepared. A contractor can order batch stucco products from a plant. If only a small amount of stucco is needed, a contractor may prepare a fresh batch of the product onsite. They will use the intact stucco as a guide and will choose an aggregate component that is comparable.

If stucco was originally dyed, a contractor will create a custom batch of the product that will have the same properties. After the fresh material has been applied to a wall, a contractor will create peaks in its surface. Stucco will require ample time to dry. A contractor may use fans or heating equipment to aid with drying the surfaces that have been repaired.

Contract a stucco repair contractor to learn more.