How to Deal with Cracks on Your Stucco
Stucco has been around for a long time and has since been developed to improve its quality and durability. Because of its proven strength against most weather conditions, it is not doubtful that stucco has been a top option for many households worldwide. However, stucco is not at all a mighty material as it could still deteriorate after quite a long time of use. And when this happens, you should look out for cracks.
Why Stucco Cracks
A crack is a common sign of wear and tear in stucco siding. Most often, it appears around windows, doors, or other edges. These cracks are easily fixed with stucco crack repair. Extreme weather conditions can cause these cracks. Even tremors and earthquakes moving or shifting the soil below the structure can lead to hairline cracks, depending on the intensity of the seismic activity. Moreover, if the soil is loose, after some time, cracks can develop.
However, if the cracks appear after a short period, the problem is caused by poor installation or mishandled stucco. If this happens, you know that the contractor is to blame. You might not have chosen an expert in this material.
How serious are stucco cracks?
Hairline stucco cracks are normal. But when the cracks are large and are not caused by a high magnitude earthquake, the problem must be due to a structural problem. The sign of this serious issue is when large cracks develop at vertical wall intersections or the upper corners of door frames and windows.
Large cracks are serious because they can make way for water or moisture. This will worsen the structural issue. Moreover, it can lead to molds or mildew that are harmful to family members’ health. If a stucco repair does not solve the problem, you may require stucco removal and new installation.
Stucco Crack Repair Tips
For hairline stucco cracks, here are some tips that you can consider if you intend to DIY the repair:
- Clean the area – Remove dust, debris, or dirt. Clean the area of the cracks to make that the stucco repair works well.
- Stucco crack repair – Most often, patching is the method of repair preferred. The cracked area will be filled with stucco. The excess is removed, and any remaining debris is also removed.
- Painting – After applying the stucco, you can paint the area the same color as the siding or wall. Many encounter issues in matching the color with the old paint. Thus, a standard solution is repainting the entire area.
If the cracks are large or if you think you do not want to risk small ones with your DIY work, it is best to let professionals do the stucco repair for you. Many stucco companies do not only specialize in installation but also stucco repair. Trust those who have been in the business for a long time and have done the job effectively. Make sure to let them inspect the entire house so that they can repair all the cracks that you may have missed. For best stucco repair Orlando, call us today for a free estimate.
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