Different types of stucco cracking can tell you when you should be concerned. Compare your stucco cracks with the types of cracking noted below. Then, find out how to repair them further below.

Types of Stucco Cracks

Hairline Cracks – Typical stucco cracks that require normal maintenance are hairline cracks less than 1/8 of an inch. These cracks can be stair-stepping on concrete block homes and that’s completely fine.

Spider Cracking – If you see a spider web-like cracking, this is typically from poor application and the there are numerous causes.

Pattern Cracking – If you see cracks that resemble a pattern, especially on a wood-framed home, it might Indicate poor application of the metal lathe we talked about above.

Diagonal Cracking – If you see diagonal cracking (not to be confused with stair-stepping noted above), it could be from structural settlement/shifting. These cracks typically are larger than 1/8 of an inch. Additionally, signs of structural settlement can be seen on opposite sides of the wall or through changes in the slope of your home.

How To Repair Stucco Cracks

Hairline Cracks– These can easily be addressed by a homeowner. Every year or two, you should do this anyway for regular home maintenance. The first step should be to clean the area. Use a brush to remove the dirt/algae. Then use an Elastomeric caulking to fill the stucco crack. An Elastomeric caulking will allow the area to expand/contract easily with temperature changes without further cracks developing. Once the caulk is dry, paint the area to match your home.

Spider Cracking– With spider cracking, you may try to take this on yourself, by following the steps above with hairline cracks. However, at some point, the area may need to be evaluated and repaired by a licensed contractor. If the cracks are larger than an 1/8 of an inch or continuously occur, you may want to have it repaired before further cracking or water intrusion/rotting develops.

Pattern Cracking– Pattern cracking is more difficult to solve on your own. If the area is small, you could try to repair the area yourself. However, over time, the area may continue to worsen and a professional may be needed.

Diagonal Cracking- If you are experiencing diagonal cracking, you may not only need a stucco repair by a licensed contractor but also an engineer to evaluate the structural integrity of your home.

How To Prevent Stucco Cracks

Preventing stucco cracks in the first place will definitely relieve many headaches in the future. Believe it or not, the best way to prevent stucco cracks is by a professional application like by our professionals at CDP Stucco.

For homeowners, the best way to prevent stucco cracks is to ensure you are properly maintaining your home by clearing vegetation away from the home, painting the home when needed, and repairing your hairline cracks.

If you have a newer home by a large developer, be sure to paint your home within the first 2-5 years of moving in. These builder’s paint is lower quality and stucco application is usually poor as well.

Cracked Brick and Stucco Repair from CDP Stucco

CDP Stucco has repaired cracked stucco for homeowners throughout Florida. If you are unsure if the cracks indicate foundation failure, a representative from CDP Stucco can provide an inspection to give you back peace of mind.

Contact us today for an inspection of your cracked stucco repair! If you are interested in Stucco Installation or Stucco Repair, call the experts at CDP Stucco now at 850-259-2283