Does Water Intrusion Happen Behind Stucco?
Stucco is a popular exterior wall covering across America, especially in the American Southwest. Its insulating qualities, range of aesthetic options and durability make it a great choice for any area—but is it true that stucco can cause water damage to your building?
In short, yes—improperly installed stucco siding can not only allow water intrusion, but contribute to water damage to your building. Do you know what to look for so that you can spot water damage before it causes lasting structural damage? Read on for some helpful stucco maintenance tips in Bluffton, SC.
Signs of stucco water damage
Have you ever seen stucco “tears,” the dark weeping of mold or mildew from areas where water was able to intrude into or behind the stucco? This usually happens around areas where the stucco joins up with flashing, windows or other joints—the stucco was improperly sealed and thus cannot keep water and moisture out. Water damage can also manifest as spotting and stains—or even cracks, if the damage is particularly far gone.
If you don’t see any “tears” or stains, you’re still not necessarily out of the clear. Water damage can occur with no visible signs, allowing mold and mildew to rot the building before building owners ever notice there could be a problem.
The best way to spot water damage before it has a chance to ruin your building is to hire a professional to conduct a moisture test. You’ll then know exactly how much damage has occurred and where exactly it’s located. Then you can decide whether to repair or replace your stucco.
Can I repair my stucco, or should I replace it?
Whether you can repair or replace your stucco will primarily depend on how extensive the damage is—if you catch it early, it’s possible that simply patching the stucco could be a viable solution. That won’t permanently eradicate the possibility of further damage, however, especially if it was improperly installed across your whole building.
If the damage is more extensive, or you suspect shoddy workmanship in the original installation, you’ll probably need to replace the entirety of your stucco siding. While more time-consuming at the outset, it is likely to be the most cost-effective way to preserve your building’s structural integrity as well as the outer walls’ aesthetic.
No matter what you choose, always be sure to pick a reputable, licensed and insured stucco contractor who offers a warranty on their installation, materials and workmanship. You’ll be glad you did.
Get help with stucco care in Bluffton, SC
Spring Construction offers the highest quality stucco and EIFS installations for our clients. We have the skills and expertise for any kind of stucco or EIFS installation, whether it’s for your home or business. You’ll love our seamless workmanship and 10-year warranty, as well as our competitive prices and great customer service. Call us today to get a free quote on your next stucco or EIFS project. We look forward to working with you soon!
Categorised in: Stucco Maintenance