Cracked Stucco Exterior? Don't Panic, Here's When to Worry
Stucco is a popular and durable exterior building material, but it is prone to cracking over time. While small cracks are common and often harmless, significant cracks in your home's stucco can indicate underlying problems. Before you panic at the sight of stucco cracks, arm yourself with information to evaluate when cracked stucco warrants repairs.
Types of Stucco Cracks
Not all stucco cracks are created equal. Understanding the different types of cracks can help you assess their severity. Some typical categories of stucco cracks include:
Harmless Shrinkage Cracks
As stucco dries and cures, it shrinks slightly causing small stress cracks. These diagonal cracks are generally less than 1/8 inch wide and are simple cosmetic issues. They occur naturally as the stucco finish settles and don't indicate any structural problems.
Potentially Serious Cracks
Certain cracks may point to more significant underlying problems that require further evaluation and repairs:
- Vertical cracks, especially near corners, may indicate settlement and structural movement in the wall or foundation.
- Cracks near windows, doors, and other openings can signal stress from inadequate structural support or improper flashing installation.
- Large cracks wider than 1/4 inch could allow water intrusion leading to interior damage.
- A grid pattern of cracks likely means the stucco was applied too thickly.
- Localized cracks in one area can indicate water getting underneath the stucco surface.
Evaluating Crack Seriousness
When you spot stucco cracks, inspect them closely to determine if they are cosmetic or more serious cracks requiring professional repairs. Here are a few factors to consider:
Crack Width and Pattern
Cracks exceeding 1/4 inch in width are more likely to present real problems compared to hairline cracks. Likewise, a grid pattern of cracks spread across the whole wall frequently results from improper stucco thickness and curing.
Crack Location
The location of a crack provides clues to its cause. Vertical cracks in corners and above/below openings tend to indicate structural deficiencies or ongoing settlement. Cracks around flashing and joints often mean an underlying water issue.
Home Age and Climate
Older homes are more prone to cracking due to aging materials, past settlement, and outdated stucco application methods. Climate extremes like heavy rain and frequent freeze/thaw cycles also accelerate cracking over time.
Next Steps for Serious Cracks
If your inspection confirms worrisome stucco cracks:
Professional Inspection
Consult a stucco repair specialist to diagnose the root cause and scope of repairs needed. They can probe cracks, review installation issues, inspect for water damage, and determine if the structure is stable.
Stucco Repair
To properly fix cracked stucco, the underlying problems must be addressed first. This may involve sealing flashing and joints to prevent water intrusion, installing proper drainage, adding control joints, or bracing areas showing structural movement. Finally, the cracks can be repaired with new stucco compound for a smooth finish.
Preventing Future Cracks
Stop stucco cracks before they start with proper installation and maintenance:
Proper Installation
The right substrate, framing, thickness, control joints, and curing time prevent cracks down the road. Don't apply stucco in freezing or excessively hot/humid weather.
Ongoing Maintenance
Direct rainwater away from the foundation with downspouts and grading. Avoid planting trees or shrubs too close to the structure. Re-caulk joints and seals annually. Spot treat any small cracks.
In summary, minor stucco shrinkage cracks are common and rarely serious. However, large, widening, or improperly located cracks demand a closer look. Catching underlying issues early prevents expensive repairs later. With vigilant inspection and maintenance, you can keep your stucco exterior in great shape for years to come.