Have you ever heard of “stucco below grade”? Like a failing grade, stucco that is below grade is not good. In this blog, the stucco specialists at Ai Restoration will explain what this phrase means, why it’s a problem, and what you can do about it.
Stucco Below Grade: What Does It Mean?
Welcome to Stucco Installation 101. In order to understand the problem, you need to first learn what stucco below grade means. In the case of stucco installation, “below grade” means that the stucco material was applied below where the home’s foundation meets the ground. If your home is on concrete, there should be at least 2 inches of space between the bottom of the stucco and the foundation. However, if your home’s foundation is going to meet raw earth, a minimum of 4 inches of space is needed. If these minimums are not met, serious issues are going to arise.
Why Is Stucco Below Grade Problematic for Homeowners?
When stucco is installed below grade, there is not adequate opportunity for moisture to drain. As the homeowner, you’ll need to be concerned about where this moisture is going. If moisture cannot drain out using what we refer to as a weep screed, it will cause damage to your stucco. Trapped moisture is the surest way to destroy your stucco exterior and your home’s foundation. Some of the issues stucco below grade can cause are:
- Cracks and crumbling to the stucco’s exterior that are not just unsightly but also gateways to water damage.
- Mold and mildew on the stucco’s surface and down to the foundation of your home, causing more severe damage.
- Decaying and rotting foundation in your home that can cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair.
All of these are big problems that can cost big money to fix. And the longer they are ignored or avoided, the more costly and extensive they become.
What Can I Do If I Think I Have a Problem With My Stucco?
Walk the perimeter of your home once each season, examining your stucco, to get an idea of what your stucco should look like in good condition. You should also schedule an annual visit with an skilled stucco inspection company. While a layman’s eye can catch more obvious issues, it takes a more experienced eye to recognize minor signs that can signify major problems. As your stucco remediation and restoration company, this enables us to build a solid relationship with you and provides an understanding of your individual home through the years, allowing us to spot trouble before it becomes serious.
Keep Your Grade Up! Call Ai Restoration for Your Stucco and Siding Needs.
Having a stucco company you can trust is important for all homeowners with stucco homes. Our team at Ai Restoration has over 18 years of experience in stucco cleaning, coating, sealing, repair, and remediation services. Contact us today for a personalized consultation of your exterior’s condition and a detailed solution with estimates for the highest-quality care.
