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Why do small cracks appear in my stucco
finish? As stucco cures some of the water
it contains evaporates. This causes the
stucco to shrink slightly. As it shrinks,
small cracks called "check cracking" might
appear. Applying stucco finishes in hot, dry
weather could contribute to check cracking
in stucco. During periods of hot dry weather
conditions, a light spray (mist) of clean
water is recommended over the stucco finish.
Some check cracking in stucco is normal. If
desired, an application of LaHabra Fog Coat
is an effective remedy.
I have noticed slight color variations,
or "blotches" in my stucco finish. What
caused this and how can I even out the
color?
Usually, spotty or "blotchy" stucco color
is a result of variations in the thickness
of the cement "base coat" beneath the stucco
finish. Slightly thicker areas can retain
moisture longer. This drying pattern can
cause the slower-drying areas to appear
darker. Typically, this happens more during
winter months, and on shaded surfaces. An
application of LaHabra Fog Coat can even out
color variations, including those caused by
cold or wet weather.
What is the white powdery substance I
have near the base of my stucco wall? How
can I remove it?
This is probably "efflorescence," also
known as "alkali." Efflorescence or alkali
consists of salts leached from cement-based
materials when exposed to excessive,
saturating moisture. It appears as a whitish
powdery "bloom" on the surface of the wall.
A wash down with white vinegar or another
approved dilute acid solution, followed by a
thorough flush with clear water will usually
remove efflorescence. Taking care to direct
sprinklers, irrigation systems or other
sources of water away from stucco walls will
help prevent it.
What is the colored, fuzzy growth
appearing along the bottoms of the exterior
stucco walls near my flowerbeds? What can I
do about it?
This sounds like colonies of mildew.
These microscopic organisms are part of the
natural life cycle of organic matter,
including decay and composting of
landscaping plants and mulches. Excessive
moisture in flowerbeds, shrubs, mulch and
other organic materials creates ideal
growing conditions for these organisms.
Prevent, or minimize, it by eliminating the
excess moisture: be sure irrigation systems
are not directed against walls and keep
plants trimmed back to allow ample light and
air circulation. Remove these discolorations
from stucco surfaces with household bleach
followed by a thorough flush with clear
water.
My house is several years old. How can I
"freshen" its stucco color?
Most stucco colors darken slightly over
time because they contain natural
all-mineral ingredients. Unlike painted
surfaces that have only a thin layer of
paint that can fade, chip and/or peel,
stucco color is "integral." This means
stucco color extends through the entire
stucco layer instead of only on the surface.
Properly maintained exterior stucco can
remain attractive for many years with only
minimal changes. However, exposure to dust,
dirt and air pollution over time can
slightly change its color. An application of
LaHabra Fog Coat is the best way to
revitalize stucco. Fog Coat is made
specifically for stucco; therefore, it does
not peel, fade or break down like paint. It
is also economical to apply.
How can I change the color of my stucco?
Is it ok to paint it?
Although stucco, like other masonry
surfaces, can be painted this is neither the
best nor the most economical way to change
color. Over time, paint tends to fade, chip
and peel away from stucco walls. Because
LaHabra Fog Coat is specifically formulated
to be compatible with stucco surfaces and
resist peeling and other problems associated
with paint, we recommend using Fog Coat for
all color change and revitalization
projects. When changing stucco color from
the original, always contact your local
LaHabra representative for proper mixing and
spraying information.
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