Home Improvement Services Serving Irvine CADo you have a project that necessitates the use of stucco? How about a one-of-a-kind plaster finish? You've come to the right place! Irvine Stucco Plastering Pros places a premium on excellent workmanship, competitive prices, and industry-leading customer service. Because we have operated in the area for many years, we understand our clients' wants and special requests as a locally owned and run stucco company in Irvine, CA. Hundreds of clients, ranging from residential families and new home developers to local small companies and commercial warehouses, have enlisted our help with their stucco projects. With our endless services including patchwork, plastering, and more, there is no end to how we may change and beautify your property. When you choose us, you can rest confident that your job will be handled by professionals who have a reputation for trust, quality, and service. That is why, in Irvine, CA, we are the gold standard for stucco contractors.
From stucco to plastering, bespoke finishes, new installations, repairs, renovations, and remodels, converting non-stucco siding to stucco finish, residential, commercial, both interior and exterior applications, and more, we can handle it all. When you engage us, we may touch up anything for a perfect finish, but other stucco contractors quit the project once the stucco is finished. Whether you require a complete stucco system installation for your new dream house or repairs for hail damage to your current façade, we provide home improvement services in Irvine, CA using quality products and professional specialists. |
Client service and follow-up are important to us. When you call, we answer the phone, respond to your questions, and keep you informed about the status of your project. Because we value our reputation, we stand behind our work. Finally, we offer free estimates and would be happy to share our stucco and plastering expertise with you. Please get in touch with us straight away!
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More from Irvine Stucco Plastering Pros
Stucco is a common building material that is susceptible to water damage, cracking, and other aesthetic flaws. Stucco is particularly susceptible to water damage and vibration, thus it requires frequent maintenance and repair to avoid structural damage. Residents and businesses in Irvine, California can count on us for skilled stucco work. High-quality stucco materials are used by our experienced stucco contractor. Call our Irvine Stucco Plastering Pros today if you need a plastering contractor.
The best qualities of stucco are its fire resistance, heat resistance, and moisture resistance. Stucco is mold and mildew resistant, making it an ideal choice for external siding. Regardless of whether your home is made of brick, stone, or stucco, the proper treatment will give it a beautiful and protected appearance. There is no such thing as a minor detail when it comes to making your home or business look ideal. That is why our stucco firm has been around for decades. Our skilled plasterers are well-versed in the most up-to-date installation methods. You may rest confident that all work will be completed properly and in accordance with industry standards. And, because our stucco specialists in Irvine, CA have years of experience in the sector, we'll be able to complete your project on time.
The best qualities of stucco are its fire resistance, heat resistance, and moisture resistance. Stucco is mold and mildew resistant, making it an ideal choice for external siding. Regardless of whether your home is made of brick, stone, or stucco, the proper treatment will give it a beautiful and protected appearance. There is no such thing as a minor detail when it comes to making your home or business look ideal. That is why our stucco firm has been around for decades. Our skilled plasterers are well-versed in the most up-to-date installation methods. You may rest confident that all work will be completed properly and in accordance with industry standards. And, because our stucco specialists in Irvine, CA have years of experience in the sector, we'll be able to complete your project on time.
Why Hire Us?
Our locally owned and operated firm has been serving Irvine, CA and the surrounding areas for many years. During this time, we at Irvine Stucco Plastering Pros have built a reputation for offering high-quality, transparent services to homeowners, property developers, and builders. Our key advantage is that we can create stucco work for you. A stucco exterior gives a subtle elegance to your home while remaining sturdy and resistant to Irvine's significant weather variations. As an energy-efficient coating, it can increase the protection, structure, and livability of your property. Although stucco is a long-lasting and inexpensive finish, it can lose its attractiveness over time. It is quite simple to apply because to its low-maintenance nature. Brick, wood, and concrete can all be covered in stucco. Its texture and color can give your home a unique and distinctive appeal. However, if you are not careful, you may find that it loses its attractiveness.
We can make any stucco work for you, including sand, cement, conventional, and EIFS, and add it to your property for higher, longer-lasting value, thanks to our experience and reputation. You can experience all of the benefits of stucco with our stucco contractors in Irvine, CA. You can improve your home's safety, aesthetic and curb appeal, energy efficiency, and value while enjoying years of durability and star-studded perfection with this fantastic exterior siding. Our expert stucco contractors can perform any stucco project with precision, quality, and attention to detail, providing top-tier craftsmanship that elevates the bar for your home or business. Regardless of the scope of the project, we can assist with stucco installation, replacement, and repair, as well as plastering. Our goal is for you to be able to enjoy the benefits of stucco 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. With the help of our experts, you may enjoy the many advantages of stucco.
We can make any stucco work for you, including sand, cement, conventional, and EIFS, and add it to your property for higher, longer-lasting value, thanks to our experience and reputation. You can experience all of the benefits of stucco with our stucco contractors in Irvine, CA. You can improve your home's safety, aesthetic and curb appeal, energy efficiency, and value while enjoying years of durability and star-studded perfection with this fantastic exterior siding. Our expert stucco contractors can perform any stucco project with precision, quality, and attention to detail, providing top-tier craftsmanship that elevates the bar for your home or business. Regardless of the scope of the project, we can assist with stucco installation, replacement, and repair, as well as plastering. Our goal is for you to be able to enjoy the benefits of stucco 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. With the help of our experts, you may enjoy the many advantages of stucco.
Our Home Improvement Services Serving in Irvine CA
Put Irvine Stucco Plastering Pros in charge of your stucco project, and you'll get the results you've been looking for. We distinguish ourselves from other stucco companies with our innovative, proactive approach to our work, as well as our individualized customer service. Best of all, we are well-versed in stucco materials, products, and projects. We have years of experience working on residential and commercial stucco jobs in Irvine, CA, so our knowledge and expertise are unrivaled. We are routinely regarded as the best stucco contractors in Irvine, CA because of our hard work and experience. Our stucco services range from basic repair to full renovation and everything in between. We are a trusted source of stucco services and guarantee the highest quality of workmanship. We can fix a variety of problems in your stucco, from cracks to missing pieces. In addition to our general stucco repair services, we also offer a variety of other services to keep your stucco siding looking its best.
We are a full-service home improvement company committed to providing high-quality services at a reasonable cost. Irvine, CA residents and business owners are well-versed in our services and frequently refer us to relatives and friends. Whatever type of property you own, our services are professional, efficient, and effective, so you can expect the best outcomes in the least amount of time. We can perform plastering, stucco repairs, and other work. All of our employees appreciate safety and are fully insured, so you won't have to worry about anything while we're on your property. You've come to the proper place if you want a firm that knows what they're doing. Make the right choice by contacting us today!
We are a full-service home improvement company committed to providing high-quality services at a reasonable cost. Irvine, CA residents and business owners are well-versed in our services and frequently refer us to relatives and friends. Whatever type of property you own, our services are professional, efficient, and effective, so you can expect the best outcomes in the least amount of time. We can perform plastering, stucco repairs, and other work. All of our employees appreciate safety and are fully insured, so you won't have to worry about anything while we're on your property. You've come to the proper place if you want a firm that knows what they're doing. Make the right choice by contacting us today!
Stucco and Plastering Work in Irvine, CA
If you're looking for a stucco contractor in Irvine, California, you've come to the right spot. Irvine Stucco Plastering Pros is fully insured, bonded, and licensed, and we provide a full variety of services from stucco to plastering, stucco repairs and patchwork, lath, and fireproofing. And, because we've been providing expert services for a year, you can trust that your project will be completed correctly and on time. Stucco is a cement plaster external wall covering that is frequently put over concrete. Stucco can be applied on wood, brick, or metal-framed structures.
Our stucco restoration contractors in Irvine, CA can assist you if you're seeking for a cost-effective solution. In Irvine, CA, we perform professional stucco repairs to return your home's stucco to its original, immaculate condition. Re-stuccoing entails applying a new layer of stucco over the old. It's troweled down to match the finish and applied in the same way as the original stucco. You can put a new layer of stucco on top of the old one, allowing you to apply a fresh coat of paint. The new stucco will not fade because it is tinted from the inside out. Our stucco work in Irvine, CA provides Orange County and beyond with a comprehensive range of drywall, plaster, and stucco services. For the greatest quality drywall and stucco work, you can rely on our skill and experience. Our crew has decades of expertise and is well-versed in the most up-to-date methods. We're completely insured, bonded, and licensed as well. You may be confident that your job will be completed in a timely and efficient manner.
Our stucco restoration contractors in Irvine, CA can assist you if you're seeking for a cost-effective solution. In Irvine, CA, we perform professional stucco repairs to return your home's stucco to its original, immaculate condition. Re-stuccoing entails applying a new layer of stucco over the old. It's troweled down to match the finish and applied in the same way as the original stucco. You can put a new layer of stucco on top of the old one, allowing you to apply a fresh coat of paint. The new stucco will not fade because it is tinted from the inside out. Our stucco work in Irvine, CA provides Orange County and beyond with a comprehensive range of drywall, plaster, and stucco services. For the greatest quality drywall and stucco work, you can rely on our skill and experience. Our crew has decades of expertise and is well-versed in the most up-to-date methods. We're completely insured, bonded, and licensed as well. You may be confident that your job will be completed in a timely and efficient manner.
Patchwork Plastering Serving Irvine, CA
Plaster walls are a common building material. But sometimes the plaster breaks off or cracks and needs patchwork. This is where Irvine Stucco Plastering Pros comes in. When you are looking for a professional plastering contractor in Irvine, CA, you have a few options. One of the most popular choices is a patchwork plastering contractor. There are many reasons to hire our patchwork plastering contractor, but one thing to keep in mind is that not all contractors are the same. We specialize in all aspects of traditional plastering, including stucco finishes and light patch work. Our expert team is trained to match plaster to existing wood lath, reattaching the wall to its original appearance. When we patch a plaster wall, we don't use joint compound and spackle. Our patchwork plastering in Irvine, CA specializes in commercial and residential projects. Our team of plastering experts in Anaheim, CA can perform everything from patchwork repairs to lath and plaster applications. We also provide consulting and expert witness services to various parties.
If your home has crumbling plaster walls, you might need to have them patched. Patchwork plastering is a complicated task, and spackle joint compound is useless. Our qualified plasterer in Irvine, CA can replace a cracked section or patch an entire wall with minimal cost. We can repair holes and cracks in drywall and provide advice on painting and plastering projects. The company is a preferred choice of homeowners throughout Irvine, CA and the greater area. Whether you're looking for expert patchwork plastering or a new wall, we've got you covered. Our patchwork plastering professionals in Irvine, CA have decades of experience and a proven process that's proven to get results. You can trust our work to look great and last for years. We are a state-licensed plastering contractor with hundreds of satisfied customers. Contact us today to schedule a patchwork plaster consultation. We'll help you with the entire process and ensure that your home is looking its best.
If your home has crumbling plaster walls, you might need to have them patched. Patchwork plastering is a complicated task, and spackle joint compound is useless. Our qualified plasterer in Irvine, CA can replace a cracked section or patch an entire wall with minimal cost. We can repair holes and cracks in drywall and provide advice on painting and plastering projects. The company is a preferred choice of homeowners throughout Irvine, CA and the greater area. Whether you're looking for expert patchwork plastering or a new wall, we've got you covered. Our patchwork plastering professionals in Irvine, CA have decades of experience and a proven process that's proven to get results. You can trust our work to look great and last for years. We are a state-licensed plastering contractor with hundreds of satisfied customers. Contact us today to schedule a patchwork plaster consultation. We'll help you with the entire process and ensure that your home is looking its best.
Stucco Contractor in Irvine
You've come to the correct place if you're looking for a stucco contractor in Irvine, CA. Irvine Stucco Plastering Pros is a company that specializes in stucco installation in both commercial and residential structures. The installation and restoration of stucco is a delicate process. For both residential and commercial projects, our stucco contractors can deliver high-quality and cost-effective services. We also provide painting, wall finishing, floor covering, and custard boards in addition to cladding installation.
Our stucco contractors in Irvine, CA have been serving commercial and residential clients for many years. We're insured, bonded, and licensed. We hire drywall repair and installation specialists who are qualified and experienced. In Irvine, CA, you can rely on us to provide the highest quality drywall repair and installation services. These experts are not only experts in the field of stucco wall construction, but they also have a lot of experience in house improvement. In Irvine, CA, we offer drywall repair, plaster repair, and stucco repair. A broken stucco surface will harm the value of your property, whether you're wanting to improve the looks of your home or company. Fortunately, you can rely on our skilled team of stucco contractors to deliver the best results possible. Contact our stucco company in Irvine, CA today if you're looking for a good stucco contractor. After all, your home is a significant investment, and a contractor can help you make the process as simple as possible.
Our stucco contractors in Irvine, CA have been serving commercial and residential clients for many years. We're insured, bonded, and licensed. We hire drywall repair and installation specialists who are qualified and experienced. In Irvine, CA, you can rely on us to provide the highest quality drywall repair and installation services. These experts are not only experts in the field of stucco wall construction, but they also have a lot of experience in house improvement. In Irvine, CA, we offer drywall repair, plaster repair, and stucco repair. A broken stucco surface will harm the value of your property, whether you're wanting to improve the looks of your home or company. Fortunately, you can rely on our skilled team of stucco contractors to deliver the best results possible. Contact our stucco company in Irvine, CA today if you're looking for a good stucco contractor. After all, your home is a significant investment, and a contractor can help you make the process as simple as possible.
Let’s us work with you!
The only stucco company in Irvine, CA that goes above and above in providing plastering, custom finishes, repairs, and restorations for the average homeowner is Irvine Stucco Plastering Pros. Our years of experience in the field have taught us that your home or business deserves nothing less than the best. We are dedicated to providing the best stucco services in Irvine, CA to both residential and commercial clients, and we want to revitalize your property. Our work speaks for itself when it comes to stucco and plastering. Whether you want to protect your new home from the elements or boost curb appeal, we can help you find the ideal solution. Our team has seen and done it all, including new installs, restorations, plastering, residential stucco, and both interior and exterior stucco applications.
On all tasks, big or small, we pay the same amount of care and professionalism. Our services are both reasonable and of high quality since we believe you deserve the best. Because we cherish our reputation, we will never cut corners. We treat our customers like family, thus we always give it our all. Customer satisfaction is crucial to our business because we get the majority of our projects through referrals. You can trust us to get the job done right the first time when it comes to stucco in Irvine, CA.
We have the experience, professionalism, and perfected procedures to get the work done well the first time. We'll start with a complimentary consultation to talk about your project's goals and the work that needs to be done. Then, while our stucco contractors work to improve the state of your home or company, we'll put the high standards we've set for ourselves into action. We will exceed your expectations and establish ourselves as your go-to stucco contractors in Irvine, CA, with years of experience repairing, installing, and painting stucco for residential and commercial structures and residential homes. As a result, all you have to do is call us at 714-557-2370, and we'll provide you with a free estimate.
More Information on Stucco
What exactly is stucco?
Stucco, commonly known as render, is a building material made up of aggregates, a binder, and water. Stucco is applied wet and hardens to form a thick solid. It's used as a sculptural and creative material in architecture, as well as a decorative coating for walls and ceilings, as well as external walls. Metal, expanded metal lath, concrete, cinder block, clay brick, and adobe are just a few of the architectural materials that can be stuccoed for both ornamental and structural purposes. It's also fire-resistant and can be used as insulation. Residential and commercial stucco plastering are both possible using stucco.
Is stucco a good siding option for your home? Let's look into it!
Stucco is one of the most prevalent and oldest siding options for a home's exterior. Stucco has been utilized for hundreds of years and is still a popular choice for home siding.
Stucco siding is utilized on nearly 25% of single-family residences built today, according to a 2019 survey by the Stucco Manufacturers Association. After vinyl, it is the most common siding in the United States. Let's take a look at why it's so popular with homeowners.
On all tasks, big or small, we pay the same amount of care and professionalism. Our services are both reasonable and of high quality since we believe you deserve the best. Because we cherish our reputation, we will never cut corners. We treat our customers like family, thus we always give it our all. Customer satisfaction is crucial to our business because we get the majority of our projects through referrals. You can trust us to get the job done right the first time when it comes to stucco in Irvine, CA.
We have the experience, professionalism, and perfected procedures to get the work done well the first time. We'll start with a complimentary consultation to talk about your project's goals and the work that needs to be done. Then, while our stucco contractors work to improve the state of your home or company, we'll put the high standards we've set for ourselves into action. We will exceed your expectations and establish ourselves as your go-to stucco contractors in Irvine, CA, with years of experience repairing, installing, and painting stucco for residential and commercial structures and residential homes. As a result, all you have to do is call us at 714-557-2370, and we'll provide you with a free estimate.
More Information on Stucco
What exactly is stucco?
Stucco, commonly known as render, is a building material made up of aggregates, a binder, and water. Stucco is applied wet and hardens to form a thick solid. It's used as a sculptural and creative material in architecture, as well as a decorative coating for walls and ceilings, as well as external walls. Metal, expanded metal lath, concrete, cinder block, clay brick, and adobe are just a few of the architectural materials that can be stuccoed for both ornamental and structural purposes. It's also fire-resistant and can be used as insulation. Residential and commercial stucco plastering are both possible using stucco.
Is stucco a good siding option for your home? Let's look into it!
Stucco is one of the most prevalent and oldest siding options for a home's exterior. Stucco has been utilized for hundreds of years and is still a popular choice for home siding.
Stucco siding is utilized on nearly 25% of single-family residences built today, according to a 2019 survey by the Stucco Manufacturers Association. After vinyl, it is the most common siding in the United States. Let's take a look at why it's so popular with homeowners.
Stucco is more prevalent in the South and West, but it can also be found in the Midwest. It's now expanding to other parts of the country as better solutions address some of stucco's flaws.
What is the purpose of stucco?
Stucco, like other siding materials, has benefits and drawbacks that you should consider in your specific situation. It's crucial to consider whether stucco is the best option for siding for your home or structure.
Stucco's Advantages
In comparison to other siding materials, stucco has a long lifespan. "When properly installed, it can last for decades without requiring care," says Gregg Cantor, a stucco expert. According to a Department of Energy evaluation, "properly applied stucco will have a useful service life of 100 years."
The Appeal of Stucco
The appearance of stucco can be changed at any time. It's possible that the finish will be incredibly smooth or extremely rough. It can be stained in a number of colors and complements a wide range of architectural styles and building materials.
Fire resistance: Stucco has a one-hour fire resistance rating, making it excellent for meeting local fire codes.
Because stucco application necessitates a high level of skill, the pricing will vary based on labor costs. "Traditional stucco costs around $20,000 for a 2,000 square foot home in the West," Javier, head of operations at Irvine Stucco Plastering Pro, adds. "Newer acrylic systems cost between $25,000 and $30,000." Because of its long lifespan, high durability, and low care needs, acrylic stucco will "probably be more cost effective than ordinary wood, vinyl, and composite siding."
There are certain disadvantages to stucco.
If done correctly, stucco should perform admirably. Hairline cracks are frequent in traditional stucco, and stress fractures can form as structures sink. On the other hand, newer acrylic stucco mixes and crack suppression technologies have significantly reduced cracking.
Insulation: Traditional stucco provides just a little amount of insulation. New stucco insulation technologies, on the other hand, will deliver better outcomes.
Staining: If water runs down stucco, it will discolor over time, posing a serious threat of moisture damage. Use gutters to keep sprinklers away from stucco exteriors.
Application of Stucco
Stucco is applied over a base of house wrap or felt paper and lath. Normally, three coats are done by hand with a trowel. Color and texture are applied in the final application.
The use of newer systems varies according to the company's product. A crack suppression system requires four coatings, while insulating methods require many phases. "They contain a polystyrene foam board, fiberglass mesh, and an acrylic finish coat," says Javier of Anaheim Stucco in Anaheim, California. To obtain long-lasting stucco, numerous layers and several stages must be completed properly.
Is it possible to do stucco yourself or should you contact a pro?
"I don't recommend doing it yourself," Javier advises. "Only a small fraction of homeowners are capable of installing stucco. Other challenges include obtaining the required equipment and specialized tools." According to Javier, stucco application is a three- or four-person job. It is not a skill that can be learnt quickly. To make the end product sturdy, long-lasting, and beautiful, there is a skill that is acquired.
Maintenance of Stucco
The pros at Anaheim Stucco have the following suggestions:
Inspect stucco for cracks or damage once a year and repair them as soon as possible to avoid water from leaking through the stucco finish.
The majority of the time, cleaning stucco isn't essential. If it's very unclean, clean it with a low-pressure hose.
Use roof gutters and inspect them often to make sure they aren't clogged, broken, or leaking water onto the stucco. Repair gutters as soon as you see problems to avoid damage or discoloration.
Over time, the color may fade. Stucco can be repainted to give it a new look.
To avoid rubbing on the stucco, trees and bushes should be clipped.
Window boxes and other water-holding planters should not be put against stucco.
Around the perimeter of the home, keep soil levels below the stucco finish. Because stucco is porous, it can absorb water from the soil it comes into touch with.
Drip irrigation systems should be installed around the perimeter of the house. The siding should not be sprayed or dusted with water.
If you follow these instructions, your stucco should survive many decades with only minor professional repairs.
More on Exterior Insulation Finish Systems, Stucco, and Plastering
Stucco is still used, however it isn't the only material used. There are at least 35 different proprietary hardcoat stucco systems on the market right now, as well as over 30 alternative stucco-like external insulating finish techniques (EIFS). It's tough to keep track of, let alone understand, all of the products that come and go on the market, particularly new hybridized systems that combine EIFS and hard-coat system characteristics (or put on over some other foundation like fibercement board).
All of these new approaches are breaking into areas where conventional stucco is barely recognized and the nuances that make stucco work are not part of the local culture. Instead of the basic, generic water management information that governed traditional stucco, which you could look up in the body of the building code, these new approaches are governed by evaluation reports ("ER reports") and private requirements that you must locate and study separately.
Due to a lack of competence and awareness, as well as basic references for fine details, installers have made various mistakes with hardcoat stucco in new markets. In the course of updating or building on, the stucco has been uncovered and encased in classic stucco on numerous occasions without uncovering severe mold or degradation. When restoring homes with freshly modified systems, on the other hand. I've been called in to fix hundreds of properties with newer updated systems where a lack of basic water management features has resulted in major deterioration concerns in still-new homes.
The good news is that if the flashing and drainage plane techniques employed in traditional stucco are followed, any type of stucco – classic three-coat, proprietary one-coat systems, and even EIFS — may function properly. Consider the differences between traditional "three-coat" stucco, new proprietary "one-coat" options, and EIFS first (the polystyrene-based external insulation finish system).
Three Coats of Stucco
Three-coat stucco is traditional stucco with a 3/8-inch scratch layer, a second 3/8-inch brown coat, and a thin "color coat" on top, for a total system thickness of around an inch. The top coat contains color powder and may contain polymer additives; all three layers are manufactured using Portland cement, sand, water, and a little lime for workability.
The procedure, however, starts with a drainage plane composed of some type of construction paper that is laid over the wood structure of the house. Building regulations require two layers of Grade D kraft paper made from virgin wood fibers. Because the function of the paper is to drain water, it must be wrapped carefully around all windows and doors.
Roof water is channeled away from the stucco system, and metal flashing systems guard any penetrations. To make a shingle impression, the paper and flashings must be overlapping.
The papers and flashings are covered with a stucco netting or metal lath fastened to the wall. Despite its resemblance to chicken wire, stucco netting is actually a thicker-gauge galvanized steel wire. Although expanded metal lath has the appearance of a thicker grating, it serves the same purpose.
While the base coat is still wet, it is troweled into the lath mesh and tooled with grooves, creating keys for the second coat to latch onto. After the 3/8-inch-thick second layer has been applied and tooled flat, the color coat is troweled on. Many traditional builders may wait 14 days to guarantee that the original layers have completely "cracked out," preventing new cracks from telegraphing through the top coat.
By design, three-coat stucco is permeable. The rain soaks into it and then drains away once the storm passes. If the papers and flashings are missing, water will soak into the wood and cause deterioration.
Only one coat of stucco
A few producers have been producing thincoat stucco compositions known as "one-coat" (or "two-coat") stucco since the mid-1980s. One coat is basically the same as two coats.
One-coat stucco is nearly comparable to traditional stucco in terms of concept and design, with the exception that the base coat is applied in one layer rather than the two-step scratch and brown-coat technique. The base layer, like traditional stucco, is mostly sand and Portland cement, but it also includes synthetic polymers and fiberglass reinforcing threads, which increase tensile and compressive strength. Instead of 3/4-inch total thickness, only 3/8-inch is required for the three-coat foundation.
One-coat procedures were created to save time and effort on the work. The base coat could be put in only one layer with the extra components, eliminating the need for a second plastering and a wait period.
In practice, I'm not certain that one coat is the most cost-effective option.
The special blend components are more expensive, and figuring out and implementing the proprietary systems' specific instructions is more difficult. One excellent stucco contractor, whose work I admire, told me that he no longer uses one-coat because it is too time consuming. His workmen objected about the additional finishing that was required, and he learned that with only 3/8 inch of thickness, attaining a beautiful, uniform finish over the common imperfections in a building frame was more difficult. (A typical difficulty I see with one-coat installations is a base coat that is much thinner than the required 3/8 inch, at least in some locations.)
Thincoat systems benefit from fiberglass and polymer additives, which help the stucco withstand the freeze-thaw cycle in the winter.
As in traditional stucco, the thinner base layer is applied over wire lath or expanded metal, as well as a paper and flashing system. This method employs the same screeds and expansion joints as the preceding one, but in varying thicknesses. Unlike three-coat stucco, one-coat stucco necessitates a 48-hour wet cure.
The applicator is responsible for keeping the base coat wet for the first 48 hours after application. Within 72 hours of applying the base coat, the color finish must be applied.
Because acrylics tend to separate cement particles from water in the mix, one-coat stucco requires more drying than traditional stucco. If the coat isn't kept moist, the cement may dry up before it has a chance to hydrate (react to water), which is necessary for the cladding to form the strong cement compounds that give it strength. Without the necessary wet cure, the base coat will be weak and fragile.
One-coat stucco typically uses one of the current acrylic color finishes instead of the traditional cementitious, textured color layer. It has a smoother and less porous appearance than sand mixed with latex paint because acrylics, rather than cement, bond the aggregates together. Many people think of the acrylic top coat as the distinctive feature of one-coat stucco, although synthetic finishes aren't essential in a one-coat system; they just happened to be invented at the same time.
One-coat base-coat systems gained code clearance in ER reports, but there was no mention of a specific color finish. As long as the base coat is at least 3/8 inch thick, you can paint it or apply a regular cement color finish or a synthetic acrylic color finish over it.
An acrylic coating's enhanced flexibility makes it more resistant to breaking and provides a more closed, water- and stain-resistant surface. One-coat stucco finishes, on the other hand, are still porous enough to allow rain into the system, despite widespread perception that one-coat systems effectively reject water at the surface.
One-coat systems crack and leak at all joints and penetrations, allowing water to seep behind them, even though the coatings are waterproof. They're also less breathable than typical stucco and take longer to dry. As a result, any error in the proper placement of construction papers, flashing, and lathing staples is less forgiving - water that penetrates into the wood structure of the home has a harder time evaporating.
Attempts to restore crumbling stucco systems have included applying a thick polymer layer over the old stucco and surfacecaulking window and other seams. Water will continue to enter the system and become stuck near the house. That type of "repair" can completely destroy the frame and sheathing of a home that is less than four years old. Damage that would have taken ten or twenty years to develop in normal, breathable stucco appeared one or two years after the sealer was applied. For the safety of a property or structure, this level of attention to detail is essential.
EIFS: EIFS A thin synthetic top coat (1/8-inch to 3/16-inch) is applied to an expanded polystyrene foam foundation in exterior insulation and finish systems. EIFS, which was designed as a barrier system with no water management beneath the foam, now requires trustworthy paper and flashing components to allow water to drain. EIFS still requires surface caulking and seam sealing (caulking is not required with a hard-coat stucco system).
Manufacturers provide all EIF system specifications in their specifications and ER reports. In fact, I've noticed that EIFS installers still mix and match in the field, using whatever components are cheap or easy to come by and assembling the system as they see fit. Given the constant pressure on budgets and timeframes, it's not surprising that we're still seeing terrible EIFS applications all over the market.
Even the most up-to-date water-managed EIF systems use sealing top coats to keep moisture from escaping as easily as regular stucco. Because EIFS cannot bleed or evaporate out the face of the wall, any water in the system must make its way to weep exits.
Drainage for Critical Areas in Detail
Stucco requires a shingle-effect drainage plane, which contains water-resistant papers and flashings that transport water down, out, and away from the timber structure of the house. Most of the issues I see in hard-coat stucco can be traced back to a few basic drainage plane detailing mistakes.
Manufacturers provide water-handling instructions for proprietary one-coat stucco systems and drainable ("water-managed") EIF systems.
Some are better than others, but it would be difficult for anyone to read and comprehend all of the evaluation reports and business specs available - the specifics for all of the numerous systems currently number in the hundreds of pages.
The good news is that any stucco system, even EIFS, can be made to work by applying traditional stucco principles. Stucco is a porous, drainable substance. It allows rain to pass through and drain.
Keep in mind that the following examples will only work if there is teamwork and coordination on the ground. While numerous trades are active, the majority of flashings and transitions occur. Grade transitions may be handled by landscapers or foundation workers, window flashings by both roofers and window installers, roof-to-wall connections by roofers, and soffit transitions by trim carpenters or framers.
The general contractor ensures that such transitions are built properly by supervising the schedule, coordinating with all subcontractors, monitoring, and inspecting. Even on custom homes, it's possible to lose control of those critical locations; on tract homes, when subcontractors submit unrealistic bids based on insufficient drawings, employees are untrained, everyone is in a rush, and confusion reigns on site, we see a lot of failures.
Weeping screams. A "weep screed" is put to the bottom border of all walls before the hard finish is applied.
This flashing, which is perforated at the bottom, defines the bottom border of the stucco coatings. Because it's the cheapest, it goes on first; the other sheets will lap over it to begin the shingle-style layering.
Weep screed is a frequent item in markets where stucco is popular. People may be unfamiliar with new marketplaces.
It is, nonetheless, crucial to the system's operation. Rain will absorb any stucco layer; the water will run downward and must discharge at the bottom. Weep screed prevents the stucco from adhering to the cement base and producing a dam by allowing water to escape via its perforations. Between the wood frame or sheathing and the concrete foundation, the screed should extend at least 8 inches above ground level.
Stucco is still used, however it isn't the only material used. There are at least 35 different proprietary hardcoat stucco systems on the market right now, as well as over 30 alternative stucco-like external insulating finish techniques (EIFS). It's tough to keep track of, let alone understand, all of the products that come and go on the market, particularly new hybridized systems that combine EIFS and hard-coat system characteristics (or put on over some other foundation like fibercement board).
All of these new approaches are breaking into areas where conventional stucco is barely recognized and the nuances that make stucco work are not part of the local culture. Instead of the basic, generic water management information that governed traditional stucco, which you could look up in the body of the building code, these new approaches are governed by evaluation reports ("ER reports") and private requirements that you must locate and study separately.
Due to a lack of competence and awareness, as well as basic references for fine details, installers have made various mistakes with hardcoat stucco in new markets. In the course of updating or building on, the stucco has been uncovered and encased in classic stucco on numerous occasions without uncovering severe mold or degradation. When restoring homes with freshly modified systems, on the other hand. I've been called in to fix hundreds of properties with newer updated systems where a lack of basic water management features has resulted in major deterioration concerns in still-new homes.
The good news is that if the flashing and drainage plane techniques employed in traditional stucco are followed, any type of stucco – classic three-coat, proprietary one-coat systems, and even EIFS — may function properly. Consider the differences between traditional "three-coat" stucco, new proprietary "one-coat" options, and EIFS first (the polystyrene-based external insulation finish system).
Three Coats of Stucco
Three-coat stucco is traditional stucco with a 3/8-inch scratch layer, a second 3/8-inch brown coat, and a thin "color coat" on top, for a total system thickness of around an inch. The top coat contains color powder and may contain polymer additives; all three layers are manufactured using Portland cement, sand, water, and a little lime for workability.
The procedure, however, starts with a drainage plane composed of some type of construction paper that is laid over the wood structure of the house. Building regulations require two layers of Grade D kraft paper made from virgin wood fibers. Because the function of the paper is to drain water, it must be wrapped carefully around all windows and doors.
Roof water is channeled away from the stucco system, and metal flashing systems guard any penetrations. To make a shingle impression, the paper and flashings must be overlapping.
The papers and flashings are covered with a stucco netting or metal lath fastened to the wall. Despite its resemblance to chicken wire, stucco netting is actually a thicker-gauge galvanized steel wire. Although expanded metal lath has the appearance of a thicker grating, it serves the same purpose.
While the base coat is still wet, it is troweled into the lath mesh and tooled with grooves, creating keys for the second coat to latch onto. After the 3/8-inch-thick second layer has been applied and tooled flat, the color coat is troweled on. Many traditional builders may wait 14 days to guarantee that the original layers have completely "cracked out," preventing new cracks from telegraphing through the top coat.
By design, three-coat stucco is permeable. The rain soaks into it and then drains away once the storm passes. If the papers and flashings are missing, water will soak into the wood and cause deterioration.
Only one coat of stucco
A few producers have been producing thincoat stucco compositions known as "one-coat" (or "two-coat") stucco since the mid-1980s. One coat is basically the same as two coats.
One-coat stucco is nearly comparable to traditional stucco in terms of concept and design, with the exception that the base coat is applied in one layer rather than the two-step scratch and brown-coat technique. The base layer, like traditional stucco, is mostly sand and Portland cement, but it also includes synthetic polymers and fiberglass reinforcing threads, which increase tensile and compressive strength. Instead of 3/4-inch total thickness, only 3/8-inch is required for the three-coat foundation.
One-coat procedures were created to save time and effort on the work. The base coat could be put in only one layer with the extra components, eliminating the need for a second plastering and a wait period.
In practice, I'm not certain that one coat is the most cost-effective option.
The special blend components are more expensive, and figuring out and implementing the proprietary systems' specific instructions is more difficult. One excellent stucco contractor, whose work I admire, told me that he no longer uses one-coat because it is too time consuming. His workmen objected about the additional finishing that was required, and he learned that with only 3/8 inch of thickness, attaining a beautiful, uniform finish over the common imperfections in a building frame was more difficult. (A typical difficulty I see with one-coat installations is a base coat that is much thinner than the required 3/8 inch, at least in some locations.)
Thincoat systems benefit from fiberglass and polymer additives, which help the stucco withstand the freeze-thaw cycle in the winter.
As in traditional stucco, the thinner base layer is applied over wire lath or expanded metal, as well as a paper and flashing system. This method employs the same screeds and expansion joints as the preceding one, but in varying thicknesses. Unlike three-coat stucco, one-coat stucco necessitates a 48-hour wet cure.
The applicator is responsible for keeping the base coat wet for the first 48 hours after application. Within 72 hours of applying the base coat, the color finish must be applied.
Because acrylics tend to separate cement particles from water in the mix, one-coat stucco requires more drying than traditional stucco. If the coat isn't kept moist, the cement may dry up before it has a chance to hydrate (react to water), which is necessary for the cladding to form the strong cement compounds that give it strength. Without the necessary wet cure, the base coat will be weak and fragile.
One-coat stucco typically uses one of the current acrylic color finishes instead of the traditional cementitious, textured color layer. It has a smoother and less porous appearance than sand mixed with latex paint because acrylics, rather than cement, bond the aggregates together. Many people think of the acrylic top coat as the distinctive feature of one-coat stucco, although synthetic finishes aren't essential in a one-coat system; they just happened to be invented at the same time.
One-coat base-coat systems gained code clearance in ER reports, but there was no mention of a specific color finish. As long as the base coat is at least 3/8 inch thick, you can paint it or apply a regular cement color finish or a synthetic acrylic color finish over it.
An acrylic coating's enhanced flexibility makes it more resistant to breaking and provides a more closed, water- and stain-resistant surface. One-coat stucco finishes, on the other hand, are still porous enough to allow rain into the system, despite widespread perception that one-coat systems effectively reject water at the surface.
One-coat systems crack and leak at all joints and penetrations, allowing water to seep behind them, even though the coatings are waterproof. They're also less breathable than typical stucco and take longer to dry. As a result, any error in the proper placement of construction papers, flashing, and lathing staples is less forgiving - water that penetrates into the wood structure of the home has a harder time evaporating.
Attempts to restore crumbling stucco systems have included applying a thick polymer layer over the old stucco and surfacecaulking window and other seams. Water will continue to enter the system and become stuck near the house. That type of "repair" can completely destroy the frame and sheathing of a home that is less than four years old. Damage that would have taken ten or twenty years to develop in normal, breathable stucco appeared one or two years after the sealer was applied. For the safety of a property or structure, this level of attention to detail is essential.
EIFS: EIFS A thin synthetic top coat (1/8-inch to 3/16-inch) is applied to an expanded polystyrene foam foundation in exterior insulation and finish systems. EIFS, which was designed as a barrier system with no water management beneath the foam, now requires trustworthy paper and flashing components to allow water to drain. EIFS still requires surface caulking and seam sealing (caulking is not required with a hard-coat stucco system).
Manufacturers provide all EIF system specifications in their specifications and ER reports. In fact, I've noticed that EIFS installers still mix and match in the field, using whatever components are cheap or easy to come by and assembling the system as they see fit. Given the constant pressure on budgets and timeframes, it's not surprising that we're still seeing terrible EIFS applications all over the market.
Even the most up-to-date water-managed EIF systems use sealing top coats to keep moisture from escaping as easily as regular stucco. Because EIFS cannot bleed or evaporate out the face of the wall, any water in the system must make its way to weep exits.
Drainage for Critical Areas in Detail
Stucco requires a shingle-effect drainage plane, which contains water-resistant papers and flashings that transport water down, out, and away from the timber structure of the house. Most of the issues I see in hard-coat stucco can be traced back to a few basic drainage plane detailing mistakes.
Manufacturers provide water-handling instructions for proprietary one-coat stucco systems and drainable ("water-managed") EIF systems.
Some are better than others, but it would be difficult for anyone to read and comprehend all of the evaluation reports and business specs available - the specifics for all of the numerous systems currently number in the hundreds of pages.
The good news is that any stucco system, even EIFS, can be made to work by applying traditional stucco principles. Stucco is a porous, drainable substance. It allows rain to pass through and drain.
Keep in mind that the following examples will only work if there is teamwork and coordination on the ground. While numerous trades are active, the majority of flashings and transitions occur. Grade transitions may be handled by landscapers or foundation workers, window flashings by both roofers and window installers, roof-to-wall connections by roofers, and soffit transitions by trim carpenters or framers.
The general contractor ensures that such transitions are built properly by supervising the schedule, coordinating with all subcontractors, monitoring, and inspecting. Even on custom homes, it's possible to lose control of those critical locations; on tract homes, when subcontractors submit unrealistic bids based on insufficient drawings, employees are untrained, everyone is in a rush, and confusion reigns on site, we see a lot of failures.
Weeping screams. A "weep screed" is put to the bottom border of all walls before the hard finish is applied.
This flashing, which is perforated at the bottom, defines the bottom border of the stucco coatings. Because it's the cheapest, it goes on first; the other sheets will lap over it to begin the shingle-style layering.
Weep screed is a frequent item in markets where stucco is popular. People may be unfamiliar with new marketplaces.
It is, nonetheless, crucial to the system's operation. Rain will absorb any stucco layer; the water will run downward and must discharge at the bottom. Weep screed prevents the stucco from adhering to the cement base and producing a dam by allowing water to escape via its perforations. Between the wood frame or sheathing and the concrete foundation, the screed should extend at least 8 inches above ground level.
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