Cracking Stucco: A Step-by-Step Guide

This guide will show you how to fix cracking stucco.

So, let’s get cracking!

1. Remove Loose Stucco
Most stucco cracks are caused by a loose layer of stucco. So, the first thing you should do is remove this layer.

Use a hammer and chisel to chip away at the loose stucco. Make sure you’re only removing a thin layer.

2. Patch the Cracks
If your home is over 50 years old, you’ve probably got some cracks in the walls.

The process is simple: you need to cut away the loose stucco and then fill the gaps with mortar.

You can apply a patch of mortar using your trowel. This will create a strong bond between the loose and the solid stucco.

3. Apply Strengthening Layers
If your home has been neglected for years, you’ll have to apply strengthening layers.

Strengthening layers form a solid bond between the loose stucco and the more solid layers beneath.

The strengthening layers can be done with three different methods:

Putty-to-Bond
This method involves applying a putty-to-bond to the stucco layer. This will form a solid bond between the loose stucco and the layers below.

Bond-to-Bond
With this method, you apply a bond-to-bond to the stucco layer.

Putty-to-Bond, Bond-to-Bond, and Patch
With this method, you apply a putty-to-bond to the stucco layer, follow it up with an application of bond-to-bond, and finally, you patch up the cracks with mortar.

4. Apply Strengthening Coatings
Strengthening coatings can be applied over any of the strengthening layers you previously applied.

These coatings can be applied using two different methods:

Coating-to-Bond
With this method, you apply a coating-to-bond to the stucco layer.

Bond-to-Coating
With this method, you apply a bond-to-coating to the stucco layer.

5. Apply Stucco
The final step is to apply stucco to the walls.

This is one of the most important steps of all, as the stucco will end up forming the basis of your home’s strength.

Make sure to apply the stucco to the full surface area of the cracking in the wall.

This is to make sure the stucco bonds with the layers beneath it. If you miss one spot, you’ll end up with more stucco cracking.

To apply stucco, you’ll have to use a trowel. Remember to apply about a pound of stucco per square foot.

6. Clean Up Excess Stucco
When you’re done, clean up the area with a wet sponge.

Then, wipe up any excess stucco with a dry cloth.

Make sure to wear proper gear such as gloves, masks, and clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty.

7. Optional: Use Stucco Repair Spray
Stucco repair spray is an excellent way to keep your home looking and feeling brand new.

I recommend you apply a few coats of it to your home every year to keep it lasting.

Remember, repairing cracking stucco is never an easy task and you should always rely on a professional contractor.