Stucco Patch: DIY or Call a Pro?

Close-up of crack in stucco siding

Stucco is a popular siding option that’s highly regarded for its durability, versatility, and attractiveness. Because of its ability to expand and contract with the weather to sustain damage, when properly maintained stucco siding can last well over 50 years.

As beautiful as stucco walls are, they are prone to cracking. Although they are common, cracks that are left unaddressed can lead to several concerning problems. Many property owners with stucco siding often wonder whether they should tackle this project on their own or turn to the professionals.

Garden State Brickface and Siding is a leading provider of premium building services in central and northern New Jersey, specializing in stucco installation and repair, as well as stucco painting and maintenance. Here, we explain how to tell if your stucco requires an easy DIY repair or an expert contractor.

What Is Stucco?

The origins of stucco can be traced back to Greece over a thousand years ago. It is a cement-like mixture composed of a mixture of aggregates and a binder, including Portland cement, lime, sand, and water. Stucco is applied in multiple layers, usually one inch thick at a time.

One thing that makes stucco such a desirable siding option is that it can customized. The texture of stucco varies depending on how it’s applied. Property owners can personalize the finished look of their stucco siding to match their preferred style and design.

When to Call a Professional Contractor

When it comes to knowing when to handle a stucco repair job yourself or rely on the services of a professional, several factors come into play. The first factor is the size of the crack or the extent of the damage. Small, thin cracks in your stucco wall can be easily fixed without needing the expertise of a professional contractor. Larger repair areas consisting of holes should be left for stucco specialists because the root of the problem could be more severe than mere common cracks.

Your experience level with these types of jobs should be considered, as well. Knowing what this kind of project entails and having the skills to perform it are required. DIY homeowners who have never applied stucco or repaired cracks should consult with a professional contractor before attempting to repair cracks themselves.

Do you have the appropriate tools and materials on hand to perform stucco repair jobs? Stucco patching and crack repairing require a variety of equipment to perform successfully. Without the necessary tools and materials, not only will you fail at successfully repairing your stucco siding, but you could make matters worse. If you don’t have all the recommended tools readily available to you, it’s wise to trust professional contractors for this sort of project.

Signs of Damage to Look Out For

While cracking is the easiest to spot, stucco can demonstrate other telltale signs that a problem may be occurring. Property owners should be aware of these warning signs so they can address them quickly to prevent further damage. Signs of damage that you should be aware of include:

Chipping and Chunks Missing

Hair-line cracks are common for stucco siding, but large areas of chipping are not. When stucco siding has large chunks of stucco missing, it’s usually an indication of moisture or water intrusion. Another way to tell if water is getting underneath the stucco is by checking to see if your siding continuously looks damp. While it’s normal for stucco to be wet after rainstorms, it should dry up shortly after. If not, chances are it’s because of water intrusion.

Moldy Smell

While our eyes can deceive us, our noses never do. When stucco is exposed to too much moisture, it can be very easy for mold to develop. If you notice the musty smell commonly associated with mold and mildew, chances are it’s either on the surface or hiding beneath the stucco.

Bubbling and Cracking Window Caulk

Caulk is used around windows and door trims to seal joints, seams, and cracks. It prevents unwanted water and moisture from entering places where it doesn’t belong. Caulk can bubble and dry out, resulting in your property being more susceptible to water damage.

Professional Stucco Services at Garden State Brickface and Siding

If you are unsure how to address concerns with your stucco siding, rely on the pros at Garden State Brickface and Siding. For over 70 years, we have provided clients in central and northern New Jersey, including Sussex and Hunterdon counties, with professional stucco services, including installation, repair, and maintenance.

To help make home improvement projects more feasible, Garden State Brickface and Siding is pleased to offer adorable financing options to customers who qualify. Contact us today to hear more about our stucco services, or get in touch with us to request a free quote.