If you’re the owner of a stucco home and you’ve recently discovered signs of stucco damage, it’s important to tackle the issue head-on. Dealing with damaged stucco can be a stressful experience, but it doesn’t have to be. Regardless of the extent of the damage, it’s likely you can find the solution with the assistance of a reliable Somerset County stucco remediation company. When you’ve noticed some of the physical signs of damage, it’s important to work to find the root cause of these issues, rather than look for a quick-fix solution. Eradicating the problem at its source is the only reliable way to prevent future problems down the road.
Here are some of the most common physical manifestations of stucco damage, and what we can do to fix them:
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Efflorescence – Efflorescence is a result of mineral salt deposits in your stucco. Physically, it shows itself as a white deposit in the stucco. Efflorescence commonly occurs where stucco meets soil, or where there is a high degree of water retention in the stucco. There is a two-part solution to this issue. First, we wash away the deposits using a neutralizing, non-toxic solution. Second, in order to address the cause and prevent future issues, we apply a sealer within the stucco. This will prevent water retention, which will in turn prevent further efflorescence.
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Gaps around windows/doors – These gaps result from mistakes made during the construction of the home, and can be the fault of either the stucco contractor or the window installer. In either case, these gaps often times are the origin point of serious stucco problems. To resolve this issue, we first create a channel where the stucco meets the window or door. Next, we waterproof the joint and seal the gap through the application of a high-grade flexible sealant, which ensures this problem never pops up again.
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Staining at missing kick-out locations – Staining in these areas is a result of water being retained where the roof meets the walls, instead of directed away. This staining is not only ugly, it can also reveal some of the most serious underlying stucco damage. The solution to this is complex. First, the stucco in the damaged area must be cut out in order to reveal the water-resistant barrier and step flashing. A slit is made in the WRB so that a kick-out can be installed behind it. Once the kick-out is installed under the step flashing, the WRB must be replaced. Finally, a flashing membrane must be installed, joint sealant must be applied, the stucco wire lathe needs secured, and the stucco must be properly patched.
When looking for a solution to your stucco issues, it’s crucial to find a Somerset County stucco repair team who will take the time to address your problem in a comprehensive manner. Stucco replacement in Somerset County should be a last resort, and can be avoided as long as you catch your issues early and hire a team who is capable of not only fixing them, but preventing future problems. Don’t hesitate and let the problem get worse; contact Ai Restoration for Somerset County stucco remediation today!