Stucco Repair Tips For Summer

Stucco is a popular exterior siding option because of its many advantages. Along with being durable and attractive, stucco has several other benefits, like being energy-efficient, more cost-effective as compared to other high-end exterior options, and can last long if it’s maintained well. However, stucco may not be as durable as cement or concrete, and if you’re living in an older house with stucco, you may need to know how to repair and maintain it regularly.

Lets look at the top five summer stucco repair tips that will help you ensure that your stucco is intact and can have a lasting effect on your home’s curb appeal.

1. Start The Repair Work Early

During the hot summer months, when the temperatures are soaring, it’s a good idea to start stucco repair before sunrise. This is essential because the temperature increases as the day progresses, making it difficult for plasterers to work in the heat. To ensure that you get considerable work done, start around 4:00 am in the morning and finish off as early as noon. You may also work in two shifts, early mornings and evening, to avoid the hot afternoon sun and get the work done.

2. Keep The Materials Cool

The most important materials for stucco work are cement and mud. When the mud is left in the sun for a while, it tends to observe the heat and stay that way for a while. When you mix this hot cement with water, the result will be immediate hardening of it due to the chemical process. This also tends to shorten the lifespan of the mud.

Even the sand pile gets effected by heat. However, it doesn’t hold the heat for long hours due to its moisture content. Thus, it’s advised to take the sand from the top during early morning hours and leave the inner portion for the times when the temperatures are high.

3. Understand The Sun’s Rotating Pattern

When you start work early in the morning, you may still have some time to work directly under it. However, when it starts getting strong, it’s advisable to move your work positions accordingly. For best results, you may start from the south side of the building and on top of the roof in the early morning hours. Next, you may move to the west side of the building, then east, and finally the north.

When you’re working post noon, make sure to work on the east and the north sides of the building only.

4. Focus On Shading

Shading is the simplest way to ensure that your working space is kept cool. You can create shading by pinning black plastic to the backside of the scaffold or where the plasterers are spreading mud. Since the plastic is black, it blocks the UV rays and provides ample shade. However, caution should be maintained when its windy.

For shading, you may also consider lightweight tarps that are breathable. These tarps are reusable and can be used for multiple projects.

5. Wear Proper Clothing

While working on the field during the summer months, its essential to keep your body well-protected and cool. While on the job, consider wearing long-sleeved shirts and t-shirts to keep your arms covered, a scarf to keep your ears and neck away from the heat, and make sure to carry your sunglasses and gloves.

In the summer months, its essential to keep your body away from the direct sunlight by covering the exposed areas completely.