Can You Repair Cracks In Stucco?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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So the answer to ‘are cracks in stucco normal? ‘ is yes!

Small stucco cracks are a natural occurrences

, so if you see one, there’s typically no need to panic. Over time stucco will probably show some minor damage like this, but with the right repair technicians by your side the problem is easily fixed.

How much does it cost to repair cracks in stucco?

Stucco Crack Repair Cost

The average cost of stucco crack repair on a 1500 SF home is

$400 to $1,500

depending on the number of cracks, their length, and their thickness. Fixing 15-medium-size cracks takes about 20 bags of stucco, which costs $200 to $300 while labor runs $50 per hour and takes 4 to 8 hours.

Are cracks in stucco serious?

The Problems behind Stucco Cracking


Hairline cracks aren’t as serious as deep cracks

. However, they can provide a pathway for moisture and water to enter into a wall system. Once moisture or water gets inside a wall, it will inevitably cause further damage.

How do you fix hairline cracks in stucco?

Hairline Cracks


Use a brush to remove the dirt/algae.

Then use an Elastomeric caulking to fill the stucco crack. An Elastomeric caulking will allow the area to expand/contract easily with temperature changes without further cracks developing. Once the caulk is dry, paint the area to match your home.

When should I be concerned about stucco cracks?


If the cracks are an 1/8 inch or larger, or if they extend out from the window or door corner over 5 feet, plus or minus

; then the concern may rise. You may want to step into the house and see if there are cracks at the same door or window corners, and if so, the level of concern should be higher.

Should I worry about hairline cracks in stucco?

This crack pattern is often a sign of foundation settlement. In short, hairline stucco cracks are common and can be easily repatched.

Most are not a serious indicator of foundation damage or structural disrepair

. However, hairline cracks caused by foundation settlement will likely reappear after the repair and worsen.

How do you fill cracks in stucco?

Can you paint over hairline cracks in stucco?

Hairline cracks are anywhere from 1/16 of an inch to 1/8 of an inch wide (typically) and are

easily and effectively repaired using caulking and paint

, in most cases because it is the most economical approach for most people.

Can you caulk cracks in stucco?


There are two main types of caulking that are best for stucco applications and these are for repairing cracks and for using when lathing to seal up certain areas

. The two main types that are recommended by most people are an acrylic based caulking and a polyurethane based caulking.

How long does stucco last on a house?

Stucco is a very durable finish material with a typical life span of

50-80 years or more

. Although it is one of the most durable surfaces available, it also features the lowest annual maintenance cost when compared to other siding materials. Stucco is a natural material consisting of an aggregate, a binder, and water.

How much does it cost to repaint a stucco house?

The cost to paint a stucco house will

average $4,500 for a 2,000-square-foot home with a new stucco exterior

. Smaller houses may only cost $3,600 to paint. Larger houses could cost $7,200 or more. Depending on typical costs for your area and type of project, you might pay between $1.80 and $3.60 per square foot.

How do you fix stucco patches?

How do you fill cracks in stucco before painting?

Clean the edges of the crack with a wire brush to remove any debris. Then,

using a sand-textured acrylic caulk, fill in the crack from top to bottom using a trowel to smooth it out as you go

. Allow the material to cure for at least 24 hours before painting with a water-based paint.

Can You Use Flex Seal on stucco?

A: You can use Flex Paste on a wide variety of surfaces such as wood, glass, tile, concrete, aluminum, metal, brick, stucco, masonry, copper, fabric, fiberglass, ceramic, porcelain, natural stones, roofing, PVC, EIFS, EPDM, CSPE, Hypalon polyurethanes and so much more.

Can I use concrete patch on stucco?


Spread and texture the concrete patch to match the surrounding stucco

– wet the trowel to achieve a smooth finish. NOTE: for patches or cracks over 1/4 inch thick pre-mixed stucco patch should be applied in multiple layers, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next.

Will paint seal stucco cracks?

Use Elastomeric Caulk to Repair Stucco Cracks


Elastomeric paint can be used to fill in stucco cracks that are 1/16 of an inch or smaller, but this is not our method of choice

.

Why you should not paint stucco?

Stucco needs to breath – One of the main reasons you shouldn’t coat your stucco with paint is because

stucco is porous

. This allows moisture that hits the surface to easily evaporate away. A coat of paint can harm that breathability.

Does paint cover stucco cracks?

Painting seems like an easy way to touch up fine cracks and discoloration, but

it’s only a temporary cover-up

. If there is existing water damage already in the stucco, the paint will only peel and crack again. If the root of the problem is not fixed first, painting will only be a waste of time.

David Martineau
Author
David Martineau
David is an interior designer and home improvement expert. With a degree in architecture, David has worked on various renovation projects and has written for several home and garden publications. David's expertise in decorating, renovation, and repair will help you create your dream home.