Stucco, also called Portland Cement Plaster, is an attractive, versatile facing material that can be applied over masonry, properly prepared metal or wood framing, sheathing, or insulation board surfaces. Stucco consists of Portland Cement based materials, sand and lime, mixed with water to form a workable mortar, also called plaster. Stucco can be applied to flat or curved surfaces inside or outside any building or structure. In the strictest, technical terms, the final coat or finish is referred to as “stucco” in which the final color & texture is obtained. The final aesthetic is achieved by manipulating finish coat. Various textures colors application methods and the technique of a skilled plasterer/installer contribute to the final appearance.

Stucco has great appeal as a surface finish because of its versatility, longevity, cost efficiency, and low maintenance. Stucco provides design versatility like no other exterior cladding. You are not limited by the colors and manufacturer predetermined designs. This gives you greater power over the exterior decor of your home. A stucco exterior will out last all wood and vinyl siding options. Stucco’s durability is unmatched withstanding extreme weather conditions, fire resistance and mold and mildew resistant. The thermal properties of a solid cement based exterior helps you maintain the interior temperatures, contributing to the efficiency of heating and cooling costs. While adding strength, beauty, efficiency, low maintenance to your home, stucco adds thousands of dollars in market value.

Are you experiencing problems with your existing stucco exterior? Your not alone, a large percentage of our customers contact us with complaints that sound like this:

1. "I’m getting water on the inside of my house around my windows"
2. "There are cracked and bulged areas of my stucco walls"
3. "What are the dark stains on my stucco, under my windows and near my roof?"

The cause of these 3 problems can be one, or any combination of the following; inadequate flashing, poor workmanship and the lack of coordination between trades during construction. The consequences of these problems can develop over time promoting unseen damages, mold growth, even structural damage and may require the complete removal of all stucco, windows, doors, sheathing, framing, insulation, drywall, etc.. putting your health at risk not to mention the ensuing costs.

Understanding the importance of proper flashing techniques and certified stucco installation methods will help you avoid these problems. The windows in your home should be carefully flashed as per the manufacturers install guide with considerations for the stucco exterior. All roof lines, chimneys and in general, various flashings must be installed by skilled tradesmen at all areas where the stucco will terminate. Fine Line Masonry works with professionals in the industry to ensure the job is done right the first time. The stucco wall system specified informs us of the proper installation of stucco at all window, door surrounds, placement of weep screeds, expansion and installation of sealant. Our attention to these details is unmatched. We pride ourself on educating our customers, providing samples of all wall details to illustrate the correct way to install your stucco system. We help you understand how your wall system functions and how to maintain it. Avoiding these mistakes is our priority.

Contact us today to schedule a free inspection. Because of commonality of these problems we have developed solutions for all the above flashing problems, cracking and mold remediation problems caused by poor workmanship. All these issues can be prevented, but if you have inherited these problems, or if you see any of the warning signs contact us to prevent further damage.