How To Repair Cracks In Stucco Walls?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Larger cracks

, we’re talking 1/16 of an inch, are cause for concern. If you can slide your credit card into the crack in your stucco, it’s time to seek some professional help. Larger cracks like these can indicate a structural issue that needs to be addressed prior to repairing the stucco.

When should I worry about cracks in stucco?


Larger cracks

, we’re talking 1/16 of an inch, are cause for concern. If you can slide your credit card into the crack in your stucco, it’s time to seek some professional help. Larger cracks like these can indicate a structural issue that needs to be addressed prior to repairing the stucco.

How do you treat cracks in stucco?

To repair a minor stucco crack,

apply a high-quality caulk

, use a brush to stipple the caulk while wet (this will create texture to better blend) let it cure, dry properly then paint the entire area.

Do you need to fix hairline cracks in stucco?

So, if you’ve seen cracks in your stucco, when should you repair them? The answer simply is,

as soon as possible

. Even if you’ve seen a small crack appear, you should attend to it right away. It may only be small now, but before long it could spread and cause more issues down the line.

What is the best product for stucco cracks?

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

.

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.

How much does it cost to fix 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.

Is it common for stucco to crack?

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.

Why does my stucco keep cracking?

All stucco cracks are the result of

stucco releasing stresses placed on it by shrinkage, expansion or other movement

. Depending on size, cracks can run the gauntlet from invisible to unsightly to the cause of major water intrusion, if they aren’t addressed in a timely manner.

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.

How do you fix large cracks in exterior walls?

  1. Step 1: Scrub it Clean. …
  2. Step 2: Use a Nail to Align Injection Points. …
  3. Step 3: Mix the Two-Part Epoxy Crack Sealer. …
  4. Step 4: Spread the Sealer onto Base. …
  5. Step 5: Mix and Apply a Larger Batch of Epoxy Sealer. …
  6. Step 6: Dispense the LCR Epoxy. …
  7. Step 7: Fill Up the Ports.

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.

How do you fill gaps in stucco?

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.

Is it better to spray or roll paint on stucco?

Stucco can be painted using a roller or with an airless sprayer – a brush is not recommended.

A roller works well for small jobs, but can be overwhelming on larger projects

. When it comes to big jobs consider using an airless sprayer. It makes putting paint on a breeze – especially on larger jobs.

Can cracked stucco be repaired?

TIP: For small cracks,

fill the damaged area with paintable high quality caulking material before continuing with the stucco patch

. Before the last coat of patching material dries, remove any excess material using a clean rubber float in a circular sweeping motion. Blend the repaired area into the existing texture.

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 do you refresh stucco?

Stucco typically lasts between 50 and 80 years. When it’s time to refresh yours,

sandblast away the old layer and start from scratch. Patch small cracks with commercially available stucco fillers

. (Never use caulk; it flexes differently than stucco and can wind up causing damage, not alleviating it.)

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.