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| Repairing Damaged StuccoStucco is again popular because of its durability and its uniquely textured appearance. Still, problems can arise in this weather-resistant shell. If the house foundation sinks unevenly or new framing members shift and shrink as they dry out, the movement can create enough stress to crack the rigid stucco walls. Problems can also arise in the stucco itself. Fresh stucco (and the masonry wall underneath) may contain salt-based compounds that can be carried to the surface of the material. As the moisture evaporates, the salt deposits leave a residue (efflorescence) on the surface. Although the alkalinity of the stucco material normally neutralizes during the curing process, this residue can create discoloration. The presence of alkali may cause expansion and subsequent cracks.
Holes, crumbling, and chipped corners in stucco can be repaired easily (see below). As soon as you detect a crack in stucco, make it a point to fix it as quickly as you can. Even small cracks will let water seep into the underlying structure, where it will eventually cause damage. Over time, water and the winter freeze/thaw cycles will turn minor cracks into major problems, which are both costly and difficult to fix. Patch large cracks and gaps in a stucco surface using the same stucco mix that was used on the walls, if possible. If not, use a stucco patching compound, referring to the package instructions for specific information. Fill small cracks with all-acrylic or siliconized-acrylic sealants. If you spot large cracks but don't have time to make a thorough repair, at least seal the openings with a bead of silicone caulk to keep out water. The caulk can be peeled away when you get around to making permanent repairs. Stucco can be difficult to color-match. If the surface requires many patches, it may be easier to cover it with a cement-based paint or an acrylic exterior paint. (Let the stucco patches cure at least 30 days beforehand.) Dampen the wall with water before painting. Cement-based paint will need a primer coat to prevent blotches but acrylic paint won't.  PROJECT BASICS
TOOLS & MATERIALS
 Fig. 1INSTRUCTIONS 1) Remove damaged stucco
Use a cold chisel and a sledgehammer to chop out all of the damaged stucco. Wear safety goggles and work gloves to protect yourself. (Fig. 1)  Fig. 2If the underlying steel mesh is damaged cut a new piece to fit the area, and then attach it to the wall using galvanized nails. (Fig. 2)  Fig. 3Mix more than enough stucco or stucco patching compound to fill the hole, and trowel it onto the mesh, pushing the stucco into the mesh. Use a hawk to hold your supply of stucco as you fill the hole. (Fig. 3) The patch should be thicker than the adjacent stucco. Fig. 4Use the surrounding wall as a level guide, and smooth the patch surface by sliding a straight-edged board back and forth. (Fig. 4) While stucco is still wet, try to duplicate the texture of the surrounding stucco by passing over the wet surface with a "finishing tool" such as a trowel, a board, or the bristles of a whiskbroom.
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