Stucco that is in need of replacement and remediation is usually the result of excess moisture. In many cases, this moisture has been accumulating for years – out of view – and the issue only comes to light when the homeowner notices that their stucco appears to dry unevenly or when it shows other signs of moisture.
While there may be other causes that require stucco repairs, excess moisture that infiltrates your home is the most common. This happens over time when stucco was installed with faulty vapor barriers, improperly installed flashing around windows, or even the complete lack of important moisture controls.
Most stucco failure results from one or more of the following issues:
Moisture barriers (such as flashing or WRBs) installed incorrectly or missing altogether
Drainage systems (such as weep screeds and downspouts) installed incorrectly or missing altogether
The meeting between the wall and components such as windows and fireplaces installed incorrectly
Expansion joints installed incorrectly or missing, leading to extensive cracking
Stucco is too thin or too thick