Nearly 25 percent of one-family homes built today feature stucco siding, according to a 2019 report from the Stucco Manufacturers Association

Learning the symptoms of structural defects can help you to spot a new investment opportunity. Or, it can help you to identify when it’s time to renegotiate the price of a property.

Even a single stucco issue can devalue a property. Check out this guide, and learn how to spot stucco problems.

1. Cracks in the Stucco

This is the most obvious sign of a problem and should be addressed immediately. Cracks can occur for a variety of reasons, including settling, thermal expansion and contraction, and even just normal wear and tear.

2. Bowing or Bulging Walls

If you notice problems with stucco in your walls are starting to bow or bulge, this is a sign of a serious structural issue. Be sure to seek professional help to help you avoid dangers.

3. Efflorescence

Efflorescence is a powdery, white substance that can form on the surface of the stucco. It occurs when water seeps through the stucco and dissolves salts, which are then deposited on the surface as the water evaporates.

Efflorescence is not harmful to the stucco, but it can be unsightly. Using a pressure washer or scrubbing with a stiff brush can remove it.

4. Peeling or Flaking Paint

If you notice that the paint on your stucco home is peeling or flaking, it’s a sign that the stucco is no longer properly bonded to the surface. This can be important issue if left unaddressed.

5. Mold or Mildew

Mold and mildew can grow on the surface of stucco in damp, shady areas. While mold and mildew are not harmful to the stucco, they can be unsightly.

A mildew cleaner or scrubbing with a stiff brush usually removes it.

6. Crumbling or Deteriorating Mortar

If the mortar between the bricks or stones of your stucco home is starting to crumble or deteriorate, it’s a sign that the stucco is no longer properly bonded to the surface. You can have it fixed as soon as you’re able to seek professional help for stucco repair.

7. Gaps or Holes

If you notice any gaps or holes in your stucco, it’s a sign that water is getting in and causing the stucco to break down. If you notice any of these warning signs of stucco problems, it’s important to address the problem immediately.

Ignoring these problems can lead to serious damage to your home.

8. Gaps or Joints

Gaps or joints in stucco can be caused by a number of things, including Settlement, Poorly Compacted Soil, or Thermal Movement. While small gaps or joints can be filled with caulk, larger gaps or joints will often require the replacement of the entire stucco wall.

Fix Your Stucco Problems Now

Stucco problems are not always easy to spot, but there are warning signs that you should look out for. If you see any of these warning signs, it’s important to call a professional right away to assess the damage and determine the best course of action.

Don’t wait to address stucco house problems – they will only get worse over time. Always determine what is the main problem with stucco to understand more.

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