Stucco looks fabulous if it is seamless. But the smallest crack makes it unsightly. Fortunately, it is easy to learn how to repair stucco.
Required Tools and Materials
Rollers
Mallets
Cold chisels
Caulks
Fiberglass cloth
Shallow bucket
Primers
Damp rags
Cement
Builder’s sand
Bitumen (tar)
Bonding agent
Soft-bristled brush
Garden hose and attachment
Paint rollers
Latex paints
Check if the cracks are vertical (from roof to door or base to window). If that’s the case, the foundation could be the problem. Consult a specialist if you think that’s the case.
Fixing Small Cracks with Caulk
If the crack is small, fill it up with caulk. Make sure you can paint over the caulk. Just put some caulk over your fingers and apply on the hole. Remove the extra caulk with a damp cloth.
How to Repair Stucco with Mortar
Step 1
The area should be soaked with water so it is not leached from the mortar you applied.
Step 2
Prepare the mortar in a large container or bucket. To do this, mix four parts builder’s sand, one part cement and a bit of water. This will make the mortar easy to use without being gooey.
Step 3
Apply polyvinyl acetate (PVA) bonding agent on the area to be repaired.
Step 4
Put the mortar mixture in the crack when the bond starts getting sticky. Put bitumen-coated fiberglass on the area you have just patched up.
Step 5
Set the fiberglass into position using a paint roller. When it is set, put bitumen over the fiberglass.
Step 6
Give the bitumen time to dry before adding another coat. Stipple it with the brush.
Step 7
Now you can apply primer over the affected area. Make sure the bitumen is designed for bitumen or stucco patching. Let the primer dry.
Step 8
Get some paint out and repaint the affected part. If the patch is conspicuous, you will have to paint the whole wall. Apply as many coatings as you like. Wait for each coat to dry before proceeding. After you paint, the wall will look as good as new.
Tips and Warnings
If the crack is wide, use a screwdriver or cold chisel to clean the area. Be patient when mixing the mortar. It may take a few tries before you get the right mixture. Eventually you will get it right.
If you are learning how to repair stucco, make sure you apply the paint evenly. Remember that paint and primer products have different drying periods. Follow the instructions as indicted in their respective packages.
