The dictionary defines “stucco” as plaster or cement for surfacing walls. Stucco is an old-fashioned yet low-cost, aesthetically pleasing, durable cladding.

Moisture management is a top priority in a stucco system because water is one of the major culprits in plaster deterioration. It can lead to rust and rot. It enters the building through cracks, through the roof, around chimneys, or through window and door openings. It can get behind building paper that is torn or not properly lapped at seams.

Our objective is to find the cause of the damage, correct it (i.e., install kick-out diverters, flashing, sealants) and then repair as required, blending in the finished product to the existing texture and color.

Notice that we use the term “blend” as the texture is hand-made and thus unique, --like a fingerprint, to the applicator. The color matches are very close, however, the samples are tri-dimensional due to the texture, hence color scanners used for matching will not read these with total precision, plus the weathering factor affecting the existing finish.

The first step is the proper installation of moisture barriers and appropriate accessories at stucco terminations and joints. A galvanized steel diamond mesh metal lath is fastened to the framing or substrate.
We then apply Sto Powerwall(r) Stucco which is a pre-mixed and pre-measured cement, lime, fibers and additives formula which has much more consistent quality control than on the job, field mixed stucco. Two layers of stucco are applied: the first, a "scratch" layer which is horizontally scratched so that the second coat adheres to it, followed by a "brown coat" which is leveled to achieve a smooth, plumb surface.
An acrylic-based primer is applied, which is vapor permeable, allowing the substrate to breath naturally and improving water resistance, reducing chance of efflorescence.
A textured, color-integrated finish is the final cladding. Sto manufacturers three (good, better, best) coating systems with warranties ranging from 5 to 10 years).

Door and window openings can be enhanced with decorative trim bands, columns, sills, keystones, and quoins.
A different texture and/or contrasting colors may be used.

Also referred to as a termite cut. Synthetic (i.e., EIFS, Duravit) stucco walls should be terminated at least 4” above earth grade, 2” above finished (pavers/sidewalk) grade. Older construction practices sometimes over-looked this procedure and the synthetic stucco – a foam board covered by a textured finish – was applied down to the foundation, below grade.

At least a couple of situations arise from this: moisture intrusion from the ground up starts the wood rotting process, and b), the foam board is a perfect shield for the termites to travel up to the wood unobstructed. Most exterminating companies require this clearance for visual detection of termite migration.

The “termite cut” process includes cutting and removing the foam board below grade and a minimum of 4” above, embedding a fiberglass mesh in Sto® Watertight Coat which is a flexible and breathable waterproofing membrane based on a unique combination of acrylic emulsion, Portland cement and fine fibers. It is used to waterproof all types of above or below grade concrete. A textured finish is then applied to blend in with existing appearance.

Hardcoat stucco applications usually do not require this horizontal cut unless there is water penetration and possible wood damage behind the stucco cladding. In such case, the stucco needs to be removed to expose damage and allow for correction. All below grade surface will be layered with cement board (Dur-Lock) and skimmed with Sto® Watertight Coat. A textured finish is then applied to blend in with existing appearance.