June 22 2024 0Comment
Stucco Failure Learn the Primary Causes

Stucco Failure: Learn the Primary Causes

Stucco- the classic siding material is undoubtedly appealing! No wonder it is the most preferred choice for building exteriors! The fine blend of Portland cement, sand, and lime proposes a unique curb appeal with a smooth, flawless finish. Stucco is considerably durable and is resistant to heat and moisture.

However, the fluctuating weather conditions in the Bronx, Queens, Manhattan, and Westchester can cause substantial damage to stucco. Often, it is as devastating as a sudden collapse! So, approaching a stucco repair contractor Queens from time to time becomes necessary. Untreated issues escalate the damage over time. Sometimes, you are out of repair solutions and need replacement. You can avoid such consequences with timely repairs and regular maintenance.

We spoke of stucco damage, but do you know what causes them? Why does your stucco fail? We will discuss them in detail. Here it goes.

Leading Factors Responsible for Stucco Failure

Stucco is relatively low maintenance. But it does not mean stucco is everlasting! We have stucco repair companies for a reason, right? So, despite being durable, stucco undergoes damage because of the following reasons:

  • Faulty Installation- Do you know nearly 80% of the stucco damages are due to improper installation? Stucco installation is a highly demanding job. It requires highly skilled professionals with extensive knowledge and experience in the field. Unfortunately, things go wrong when you hire an incompetent contractor! Appropriate proportion of the stucco materials, proper surface preparation, right application techniques, and exact curing time are the deciding factors behind the durability of the stucco work. Thus, if a single step goes wrong, it affects the entire structure. Therefore, always hire licensed and reputed exterior stucco contractors to ensure optimal longevity.
  • Missing Caulking- Caulking around door and window openings is essential to restrict water seepage. Caulking is a sealant applied to gaps and joints to waterproof a structure. However, over time, caulking undergoes wear and tear. As a result, it cracks and often comes off. So, water now has a clear passageway to penetrate the stucco layer and cause internal damage. Water can lead to rotting and corrosion in stucco. It is another significant reason for stucco failure.
  • Cracks- Typically, all masonry materials are vulnerable to cracks. Bricks, concrete, or stucco- cracks are prevalent everywhere. It is one of the fundamental causes of stucco damage. What causes cracks? Fluctuating temperature, excessive moisture exposure, improper installation, freeze-thaw cycles, and ageing are the pivotal factors responsible for cracks. The consecutive expansion and contraction of the surface leads to subsequent tension, resulting in cracks. When you have cracks, your stucco encounters extensive water damage.
  • Transition Faults- Sometimes, the spot where stucco meets brick, concrete, or stonework is not adequately sealed. Whenever there are joints between dissimilar materials, the gap requires appropriate sealing. If the seal fails, you need stucco repair services to fix it. It is a crucial construction detail you should never ignore. 
  • Discoloration- Are there brown stains? Is your stucco becoming black? Both scenarios indicate heavy water damage. Brown stains appear due to rotting wood or metal corrosion. You get black stains when there is mold and mildew growth. Do not take discoloration lightly. You might have severe underlying damage that might lead to sudden stucco failure.

Thus, you have numerous reasons to call a stucco repair contractor Queens. Stucco failure is common, but you can restrict it with timely action. Maintenance, inspection, and repairs are the key to having long-lasting, exquisite stucco work. Hence, always act fast to ensure you haven’t lost the opportunity of restoration. Do you agree?