Once you see a crack in your stucco, you may get the DIY itch. But we'd encourage you to put down the trowel and back slowly away. While cracks may seem deceptively simple to fix, an untrained hand can take your cracked stucco from bad to worse. At Santa Fe Stucco and Roofing, we pride ourselves on emphasizing the importance of utilizing new techniques and materials while respecting the stucco’s structural integrity and rich heritage. Learn how to spot when your stucco is in need of repair--and why you're better off leaving it to us!
There are red flags you should keep your eyes peeled for when checking your home or business’s stucco.
Cracks: These can be a result of a shifting foundation or extreme temperature changes. If you see cracks larger than the width of a credit card, it’s time to call for stucco repair. Pay special attention to junctions such as at parapets or around windows. Cracks should be repaired as soon as possible to fend off any future problems with moisture or debris.
Signs of moisture: Moisture damage can manifest not only in cracks, but in staining and discoloration. As the main cause for excessive moisture is the weather, set aside some time to inspect your stucco the next time a storm rolls through.
Change in texture: When stucco is more permeable than intended, crumbling, bulging, and other malformations can occur.
Be aware of potential threats to your stucco such as streams of water from your sprinklers or close-growing plants that can scratch the siding and transfer moisture.
Keep an eye out for any potential issues. If you see anything that looks weak or decayed, call us immediately so we can get started on fixing it before it gets worse.
For those who are DIY-inclined, sealing stucco cracks may seem like an easy enough task. However, after over 50 years in the business, we know that stucco installation and maintenance are equal parts science and art form. Improper repairs can lead to issues down the road that are more expensive than hiring a professional in the first place.
If you leave even the smallest opportunity for moisture to get in, water damage will take you out of the frying pan and into the fire. Self repair can also lead to an uneven appearance as it is quite difficult to match the original stucco’s texture and color.
Are you interested in the final product? View our stucco gallery here.
Synthetic vs Traditional Stucco
Synthetic and traditional stucco both have their pros and cons. The vulnerabilities of your stucco and the subsequent repairs can vary based on which type you have.
Synthetic stucco results in a more uniform appearance, both in terms of texture and color. The added artificial polymers give synthetic stucco more flexibility to expand and contract in extreme weather. At Santa Fe Stucco and Roofing, we exclusively use Sto as our preferred brand of synthetic stucco, which is 100% waterproof.
Traditional stucco and its iconic appearance can be required by historical boards based on your location. Its porous nature can result in water absorption and eventual rain streaks. However, there are many modern treatments that can allow traditional stucco to last as long as some synthetic stucco.
What can you expect when you hire Santa Fe Stucco and Roofing professionals? You don’t have to worry about a spotty patch-up job: Using the “full-wrap” technique, we install stucco over an even layer of fiberglass mesh-embedded leveling compound. This establishes an even surface for a smooth application process. Additionally, we use materials that are specifically designed to thrive in Santa Fe’s high altitude and dry climate. Although we may not always be the cheapest option, we’re firm believers that you get what you pay for. And for us, quality is key!
If you choose to build with this stately Southwest material, stucco cracks are just a fact of life. Don’t throw money away with half-baked attempts to maintain your home. Instead, hire dependable professionals who specialize in roofing and stuccoing services. At Santa Fe Stucco and Roofing, we make it our mission to provide the highest quality stucco repair in Santa Fe, using quality materials so that your stucco doesn’t deteriorate prematurely.
Call 505.690.6215 now, and our experts can provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision regarding your home’s exterior.