Stucco Removal is a big job that requires scaffolding and dust control measures. It is also a labor-intensive project that can be costly.
Ultimately, it’s up to the homeowner to decide whether stucco remediation is needed. Remediation involves repairing the underlying substrate and fixing issues like moisture intrusion, mold growth, and structural weaknesses.
While stucco is a beautiful option for your home’s exterior, it isn’t impervious to weather damage. In fact, Colorado’s extreme climate changes can quickly wreak havoc on your stucco and lead to major issues with the underlying structure of your home.
One of the most common problems with stucco is moisture intrusion. Moisture is extremely damaging to stucco and the underlying structure of your home, leading to mold growth, wood rot, and structural deterioration. Luckily, there are several ways to prevent moisture intrusion in your stucco.
A well-installed stucco system will have a draining system that will direct water away from the foundation of your home. A good drainage system will also help to prevent water from seeping through your walls and into your home’s interior.
Another way to prevent moisture intrusion is by ensuring that the flashing around your windows and doors is properly installed. If the flashing is not correctly installed, it can create a space for water to leak into your home, leading to serious damage.
Cracks are a normal part of the aging process for stucco, but it is important to have these cracks repaired as soon as possible. Stucco cracks that are larger than 1/16 of an inch are a sign of major damage and can allow water to enter the underlying structure of your house.
Staining is a common problem for stucco homes, but it can be difficult to identify and treat. Different stains require different treatment methods. For example, mineral deposits require acidic cleaners, while organic stains are best treated with a bleach solution.
Another thing to look out for is signs of fungus or mold. These fungi and molds can cause major structural damage to your home, so it is important to treat them as soon as they are detected. Regular maintenance and water control will also help to prevent fungi and mold from growing in your stucco home.
Why Do I Need to Remove Stucco?
Stucco is a beautiful and timeless exterior material that is energy-efficient and provides excellent insulation for homes. However, like all materials, it does require maintenance and care to keep it looking beautiful and in good condition. It’s important to regularly inspect stucco for cracking, mold growth, and moisture intrusion in order to prevent the need for extensive stucco removal or to mitigate moisture problems that could lead to more serious issues down the line.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to talk to a stucco repair professional. They can help you decide whether to simply repair the damage or consider removing the stucco altogether.
Cracking is a common problem that is normal, especially if a lot of time has passed since the stucco was originally installed. However, if the cracks start to widen and appear concerningly large, it’s likely time to remove the stucco. This will help prevent moisture damage to the interior walls and other building materials and reduce the risk of mold growth and mildew.
Painting over stucco can be tempting, but it’s important to remember that paint seals the pores of the stucco and can prevent moisture from escaping. This can lead to long-term moisture problems and may damage your home’s structural integrity. If you do want to paint your stucco, it’s recommended that you hire a professional. They will ensure that the proper prep work is done and will apply the paint correctly to avoid moisture problems in the future.
Stucco cannot be applied directly to the wall. It needs to be attached to wire lath, which is a layer of steel mesh that gives the stucco something to adhere to. If the stucco isn’t installed on a lath, it will eventually crack and break away from the wall. The same goes for a stucco over an existing brick or concrete wall. This can cause significant problems, including rot and water penetration that can compromise the structural integrity of the wall. This can result in a need for extensive and costly stucco removal or other repairs.
How Much Does Stucco Removal Cost?
Stucco is a durable material that can provide excellent insulation for homes. However, its porous surface can lead to moisture intrusion, causing cracks and other damage. The good news is that stucco can be repaired and restored to its original beauty with frequent maintenance.
The price of stucco removal depends on the size and complexity of your home, as well as local regulations and disposal fees. Hiring a reputable contractor that provides assessment, repair, and installation will help to reduce overall costs by providing a cohesive experience and ensuring a smooth project.
In order to determine the extent of your stucco damage, a professional will inspect your existing siding and take note of any existing water or moisture problems. This will allow them to plan for future work and determine the best course of action to get your home looking great again.
Some homeowners are able to do small repairs on their own, depending on their technical know-how and time constraints. However, if the damage is extensive or widespread, it’s usually more cost-effective to hire a professional.
It’s important to remember that a stucco exterior can be covered by other materials. For instance, a brick wall may be covered in stucco because it was in poor condition and previous homeowners didn’t want to spend the money on tuckpointing it. If this is the case, it’s important to hire a mason to inspect the brick wall and identify any issues before proceeding with stucco removal.
If the underlying brick is in good shape, it’s possible that you can simply remove the stucco and replace it with new siding. This is often less expensive than completely replacing your entire home.
It’s also worth remembering that you can save on installation and removal costs by bundling it with other projects, such as a new roof or exterior painting. This will help to keep your total costs down and allow you to make the most of your investment.
What Are the Benefits of Stucco Removal?
Stucco is a popular building material, especially in warmer climates. It is affordable, easy to maintain, and provides great insulation. However, stucco isn’t for everyone. If you aren’t happy with the way your house looks and want to see what’s underneath, it may be time to remove the stucco and replace it with something else.
Removing stucco can be challenging for homeowners, but it’s definitely doable if you are willing to invest the time and money in the project. The key is to choose a contractor with experience in stucco removal and make sure they have all the proper certifications.
The first step is to do a thorough inspection of the stucco to determine if there are any underlying issues. Cracks are usually the most obvious sign that there’s an issue, but you should also look for staining or rotted wood around doors and windows. If there are no underlying issues, a simple repair job may be all that’s needed.
If the underlying brick is in good shape, you may be able to save some money by opting for a repair and coating instead of a full remediation. However, if the cracking is severe or spreading quickly, you’ll need to take more drastic measures.
Once the stucco is removed, the area will be easier to clean and paint. It will also allow for more natural lighting and improve the overall aesthetic of the home. If you’re planning to sell the house in the future, this is an excellent way to increase its value.
Lastly, removing stucco can help with air quality. It’s not uncommon for old stucco to contain asbestos, which can cause respiratory problems and other health issues if inhaled. Removing it will improve indoor air quality and prevent health issues for you and your family members.
If you’re ready to get rid of your stucco, contact us for a free estimate! We’ll match you with top-rated pros in your area. Just enter your zip code above to get started. We’ll send you estimates from up to 3 contractors. You can then compare them and choose the best option for your home.