Stucco Repair | Pasadena, CA | Stucco, Plastering & EIFS

Stucco is a durable material that provides excellent insulation for homes and buildings. Typically, the exterior finish of stucco is three to four millimeters thick, helping to keep homes cool by minimizing energy consumption while also reducing noise from external sources like traffic. Stucco’s ability to dampen sound makes it a popular choice for residential areas. However, stucco does have some drawbacks—it can be brittle and prone to cracking or shifting, particularly in areas with frequent ground movement.

Before applying stucco, the wall surface must be thoroughly cleaned with water and detergent to remove any dirt or debris that could affect the material’s adhesion. Once the walls are clean and properly prepped, the stucco is applied, restoring the structure’s original profile and durability.

A key component of stucco installation is the lath material, which supports the plaster. Traditionally, lath was made of horizontal wooden strips. Today, modern lath is typically installed over a moisture-resistant barrier, such as paper or felt, which helps protect the building’s framing from water damage. This method, known as “open-loop stucco,” prevents moisture from seeping into the masonry.

Stucco’s aesthetic appeal has made it a popular choice for both commercial and residential properties. Many early stucco buildings were inspired by European architectural styles. For example, Benjamin Henry Latrobe, appointed by Thomas Jefferson in 1803 as the Surveyor of Public Buildings, oversaw the creation of several iconic stucco structures, including St. John’s Church in Washington, D.C., and the marbleized stucco finish on Arlington House during the 1840s.

Traditionally, stucco is applied in layers. The first layer, often referred to as the “scratch coat” or “brown coat,” is followed by a finishing layer. A roughened base coat is typically created using a wooden float and nails, which provides a textured surface for the final finish. Once the base layers have set, the final texture is applied, resulting in a durable and attractive surface.

Stucco has several key advantages, such as absorbing moisture from the ground and helping to regulate indoor temperatures. While stucco is not completely waterproof, it can be applied over masonry to shield buildings from harsh weather conditions, improving energy efficiency. Its durability and weather resistance make stucco a popular choice for both homes and commercial buildings.

Stucco is also breathable, allowing water vapor to escape through small pores, which helps prevent moisture buildup. While stucco is not ideal for extremely wet or high-impact environments, it remains a flexible and attractive option for most climates, offering homeowners a reliable material that can withstand the elements while adding value and visual appeal to their properties.

Preparing for Stucco Application

To ensure the stucco bonds effectively, the wall must be thoroughly cleaned with water and detergent to remove any surface debris. After cleaning, the walls are ready for the next step in the process, where the base coat is applied. Once set, the stucco restores the wall’s original profile, making it ready for finishing.

Lath Material is another important part of the stucco system. Historically made from wooden strips installed horizontally to support wet plaster, modern lath is applied over a moisture-resistant barrier like paper or felt to protect the framing from water. This process, known as “open-loop stucco,” helps seal the masonry and prevent water intrusion.

Because stucco is so versatile and visually appealing, it has been widely used on both commercial and residential buildings. In early America, stucco often mimicked European architectural styles. Notably, Thomas Jefferson appointed Benjamin Henry Latrobe as Surveyor of Public Buildings in 1803, leading to many iconic stucco structures such as St. John’s Church in Washington, D.C. In the 1840s, the stucco finish at Arlington House was even marbleized for added grandeur.

Stucco has traditionally been applied through a multi-layer process. The first layer, often referred to as the scratch coat, is applied before a second layer, commonly called the brown coat. Once these layers are applied, the final finish is added. Each coat plays an important role in creating a durable and appealing finish.

The roughening of the second coat often involves using a wood float with protruding nails, creating a texture that helps the final coat adhere. The third and final coat is applied after the base layers have set. This final coat serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, providing a textured finish that protects the building’s exterior.

The Advantages of Stucco

Stucco offers several advantages, including its ability to absorb moisture and maintain consistent indoor temperatures. Although not completely waterproof, stucco can be applied over masonry to shield buildings from extreme weather conditions, enhancing energy efficiency and durability. Stucco also resists wear from the elements, making it a popular choice for exterior applications in various climates.

In addition to being weather-resistant, stucco is also breathable, allowing water vapor to escape through its pores. This prevents moisture from building up inside the walls, which is critical for maintaining the structural integrity of a building. However, stucco may not be the best choice for very wet or high-impact environments.

While not ideal for all climates, stucco’s flexibility allows it to withstand various weather conditions, making it a reliable option for homeowners. It’s also highly durable, holding up well against rain and other environmental factors. However, stucco may not be the best option for cold or extremely wet climates. Despite this, it remains a preferred choice for many because of its cost-effectiveness, durability, and aesthetic appeal.