Applying stucco over the exterior of a brick home is possible. Knowing how to stucco involved following certain steps to ensure a proper job. There is a variety of stucco textures that can be created. If you have the right equipment and the proper skills, you can create your stucco home yourself.
Drilling into cement stucco can be done successfully. Beware drilling into EIFS, synthetic stucco. You could void the warranty and damage to the finish when doing stucco repair.
Well built cement stucco homes can last hundreds of years. Pigments can be added to color stucco so that it never needs painting. Texture and patterns for stucco are infinite.
EIFS replacement starts with full inspection and removal of damaged sheathing and framing. Use 30 pound felt paper water barrier and a hidden drainage system.
Repair of stucco is not very hard. Matching stucco finishes and stucco colors is hard. Stucco repair will take a bit of practice to get the right look.
Major EIFS problems with water trapping have caused rot and decay of homes using this product. Damage can be repaired, but not easily. The synthetic stucco can be replaced with a newer water managed eifs system, or with a different type of siding.
A listing of EIFS companies belonging to EIMA. Some EIFS stucco
companies produce a barrier EIFS product for residential use. For
additional EIFS systems information, contact each company, and be sure
to use only a water managed system if using EIFS on your home.
EIFS has new water management systems. Synthetic stucco problems from poor water membranes or flashings cause rot. EIFS new system has fewer problems.
Cement stucco suits a variety of architectural styles and is rock solid, proving its durability over time. EIFS, or the newer synthetic stucco, is waterproof, but without water management systems can cause rot damage. Whichever type of stucco you choose, be sure it is installed properly, enabling water vapor to escape.
Add color to stucco - or leave it natural and protect it from the weather, with some of the modern products. A partial list of stain and repellant manufacturers are offered along with EIFS, or synthetic stucco, manufacturers.
Stucco is a rugged home finish, but not without problems. Stucco repair for cracks and efflorescence are discussed, requiring Portland cement, simple tools, sealing against water entry ... and patience.
EIFS (exterior insulation and finish) with a special water management system is available. Synthetic stucco problems (rot, mold) may become a thing of the past.
Masonry surfaces can be protected and colored to suit your decorating instincts with penetrating sealers and stains. These masonry products overcome the peeling and blistering problems of paint coatings. Masonry sealers can either block or allow water vapor to pass through, both necessary in different situations. Be sure you read all masonry product labels for application instructions. This will allow for proper usage - and avoid possible danger from exploding fumes if used in the wrong areas!
A starter list of masonry paint, sealers and stain manufacturers. Be sure to read and follow instructions for all masonry products before you start on fresh masonry.
Stucco is durable and basically maintenance free. However, in hot and wet climates, water can be absorbed and cause stucco repair problems. Study your regional climate and consult these excellent publications from the Portland Cement Association.
Stucco allows water absorption. Water rots sheathing. Masonry stain or penetrating finish helps stop water entry and still allows vapor release to the outside.
