How to do Stucco Repair? – The Ultimate Guide

Stucco is a cement-based coating that adds to the texture of the wall.  Made from a mixture of cement and sand with a portion of water and lime, and it’s applied in three layers over the lath of the wall.

Stucco is helpful if you are located in places with extreme weather conditions. It’s also designed to block and withstand UV rays.

Being such an important component, have you ever wondered how to do stucco repair?

Read below and find out!

Before you make a repair

Can stucco be repaired? Yes, and there are a variety of ways to fix it.

But keep in mind that since stucco consists of different layers, it’s best to know first the origin of the problem or the cause of its deterioration.

You also have to remember that some stucco problems may be structural and may not be repaired anymore.

Things you need for Stucco Repair

Prepare these things to do the stucco repair properly:

1. Pre-mixed stucco Patch or DIY stucco mixture
2. Screwdriver
3. Putty knife
4. Utility knife
5. Caulk gun
6. Wire brush
7. Hammer
8. Chisel
9. Gloves
10. Clothes
11. Safety glasses
12. Commercial solvent

DIY Stucco Repair Mixture

There are pre-mixed stucco available in the market, but if you prefer to make your own, you can try this DIY stucco mixture below:

Take note that the mixture of the first coat and the final stucco coat have different measurements, so make sure you have the right quantity for the patchwork.

First Stucco Coat:

• 47 pounds of portland cement
• 6 shovels of slightly damp sand
• 1 shovel of hydrated lime
• 0.5 cup of acrylic bonding agent

Second and Final Coat:

• 47 pounds of portland cement
• 8 shovels of slightly damp sand
• 1 shovel of hydrated lime
• 0.5 cup of acrylic bonding agent

Procedure:

1. In a large container, mix all the dry ingredients and blend them using a shovel or a mortar hoe.
2. Once mixed, add the acrylic agent and stir well.
3. Add an adequate amount of water, a little at a time. For example, you may pour half a cup first then slowly increase the quantity.
4. Stir it properly while pouring the water until the mixture reaches a buttercream-frosting-like consistency. Too much water will make the mixture useless, so closely monitor the moisture.
5. Once done, you can use it right away.

You can use the stucco mixture for up to 90 minutes before it hardens and becomes unusable.

Preparing for Minor Stucco Repair

Minor stucco repair involves fixing shallow cracks and holes. One of the best ways to patch a stucco crack is to locate it first and then do the following:

1. Using a hammer and chisel, widen the crack by a quarter-inch and form an inverted V. If you are dealing with small holes, clean it with a knife or chisel.
2. Once you have chiseled the crack or hole, clean the area with a brush to remove any obstruction.
3. After cleaning, you can then use your pre-mixed stucco patch. Next, cut the nozzle tip of the pre-mixed stucco that you bought and match it with the width of the crack.
4. Load the pre-mixed stucco into a caulk gun and slowly draw it to the crack or hole.
5. Level the stucco mix using a putty knife.

Repairing Major Damaged Stucco

There are three layers within stucco: lath, scratch, and brown coat. When the damage reaches the lath, the repair needs to be major. Most homeowners make their own patch mixture because it’s more cost-efficient. If you think that the stucco repair needs a high amount of mixture, then it’s okay to make your own.

Here are the steps that you can follow when repairing major damage.

1. Just like patching shallow cracks and holes in stucco, you have to clean and remove the damaged area.
2. Using a hammer and chisel, scrape or break off the loose stucco. Just be careful not to damage the wood lath further.
3. When the obstructions have been removed, cover the exposed wood lath with the builder’s paper. Fasten with nails and place another layer of paper over the first one.
4. Add a metal mesh and trim it tightly against the edge of the stucco.
5. Apply the first layer of stucco mixture until the layer is about half an inch.
6. Scratch the surface of the stucco coat using a trowel.
7. Apply the second coat of stucco mixture up to a layer of ⅜ inch thick. Smoothen the edges with a trowel, and cover with a plastic sheet. Let it sit for three days.
8. After three days, remove the plastic. Then apply the final coat of stucco mixture.

Conclusion

Stucco repair can be time-consuming and may require too much effort. If it’s too much work or if you’re just starting to learn how to do stucco repair, you can seek the help of professionals.

The reliable professionals in El Gato Painting specialize in residential painting, including a stucco repair before painting the exterior. El Gato Painting’s services are budget-friendly without compromising performance. Just lay down your requirements, and El Gato Painting will do a job that may be the envy of your neighbors.

Contact El Gato Painting today for an appointment!