When it comes time to embark on a stucco project, some homeowners tend to try to save money wherever possible. This can mean trying to cut corners. That’s why we are often asked about installing flashing on existing stucco. Can it be done? Will Ai Restoration do it? And what is flashing, anyway? We address all of these questions in today’s post. What is Flashing? Typically comprised of thin pieces of water-resistant material, flashing is part of a complete water management system. If properly installed, … [Read more...] about Can Flashing Be Installed on Existing Stucco?
The Importance of Stucco and EIFS Moisture Testing
Homeowners who are concerned about their stucco may want to proceed with an inspection to reveal possible underlying problems. Part of that inspection includes testing for moisture beneath the surface. If the siding is EIFS, the home will need EIFS moisture testing. A test may not be able to reverse damage, but a properly interpreted moisture test can be a good indication of what to expect underneath your siding. How Does EIFS Moisture Testing Work? EIFS moisture testing is a process that should be done if … [Read more...] about The Importance of Stucco and EIFS Moisture Testing
Stucco Repair in NJ & PA: When Is It Time For Remediation?
Home improvement projects can be a nightmare, which is why many homeowners looking for stucco repair in NJ and PA may want the quickest fix to finish the project. That’s not always the best plan, however, as some of the more common stucco problems can actually be signs of a bigger issue in need of a full remediation. What You See: Cracks What’s Underneath If you see large cracks or clusters of cracks in your stucco, it's possible an error was made in the stucco installation process. When improperly installed, … [Read more...] about Stucco Repair in NJ & PA: When Is It Time For Remediation?
What is Manufactured Stone Veneer?
Natural stone is a beautiful siding option, but unfortunately is out of budget for many. Manufactured stone is an alternative to natural stone that gives you the same look and feel - without breaking the budget. But what is manufactured stone? How is it made? And how does it really compare to the natural stuff? What Is Manufactured Stone Veneer? Simply put, manufactured stone veneer (sometimes also just called stone veneer) is a manmade material designed to look like natural stone. It is most often used for … [Read more...] about What is Manufactured Stone Veneer?
3 Common Vinyl Siding Problems and How to Fix Them
Siding on your home can help boost curb appeal, protect your home from the elements, and make a statement that shows your personality through your home. With dozens of other siding options available to choose from, vinyl siding sometimes gets a bad reputation. Today’s vinyl siding has improved greatly from the siding of the past, but if your home has older siding, you may experience some of the following problems. Warping and Buckling The most common problems associated with vinyl siding are warping and … [Read more...] about 3 Common Vinyl Siding Problems and How to Fix Them
What is Stucco Remediation?
All improperly installed stucco is susceptible to failure. Cracking, mold, and moisture can all wreak havoc on a stucco home and, while it can be tempting to repair small areas or do “mini remediations” as issues arise, nothing can compare to a full remediation done by the professionals at Ai Restoration. But what is stucco remediation? What Is Stucco Remedation? Stucco remediation is the process of not only removing damaged stucco, but also addressing the underlying causes of the damage. Simply put, … [Read more...] about What is Stucco Remediation?
What are the Different Types of Stone Veneer?
You’ve decided it’s time to restore your home’s exterior, and you know you want to go with a stone veneer. Now what? There are more types of stone veneer than you expected and you have no idea which one to choose. Have no fear, Ai Restoration is here to help you break down the different types of stone veneer and figure out which one is the best option for your home. Natural Stone Veneer Natural stone veneer is exactly what it sounds like: naturally occurring stones, usually less than 1-inch thick, that are … [Read more...] about What are the Different Types of Stone Veneer?
Why Stucco Without Control Joints is a Bad Idea
When going through a big project such as residing your home, it can be tempting to take any shortcut you can to cut costs. One such shortcut is to apply your stucco without control joints. Many homeowners don’t know what control joints do, but they are actually a vital part of the stucco application process to help prevent cracking and reduce cracking over time. Here we discuss what stucco control joints do - and why skipping them is a bad idea. Types of Control Joints Stucco control joints can either be one … [Read more...] about Why Stucco Without Control Joints is a Bad Idea
How to Protect Stucco from Water Damage
The best way to protect stucco from water damage is to understand how water damage occurs, and intervene as soon as possible when you see signs of damage. Below we discuss the 4 leading causes of water damage in stucco and outline our top suggestions to protect stucco from water damage. Problem: Improper Stucco Composition An appropriately balanced mixture of Portland cement, sand, and water will yield a durable and sturdy stucco composition. Standardized ingredients and a complete curation period will give a … [Read more...] about How to Protect Stucco from Water Damage
What Does a Stucco Control Joint Do?
We've already discussed why stucco without control joints is a bad idea - but what exactly do stucco control joints do? How can stucco control joint installation improve the longevity of your stucco exterior? We took a deep dive to answer these questions and more. What do stucco control joints do? The purpose of a stucco control joint is to relieve stresses on the stucco and reduce cracking and other damage caused by those stresses. Things like changes in temperature, humidity, and even ground movement can … [Read more...] about What Does a Stucco Control Joint Do?
