Hard stucco is also prone to moisture retention. EIFS has received a lot of bad press and rightly so but there are many potential moisture hot spots in hard stucco applications as well. One of the most important hard stucco details that is often missing are kick-out flashings. These very important flashings help keep water from flowing against the stucco exterior. These flashing should be installed whenever stucco siding comes in contact with roofing materials, such as in dormer areas.
Another area that is prone to water intrusion is at penetrations. Such penetrations exist at pipe extensions, vents, utility devices, hose bibs and at other exterior attachments. All of the penetrations must be completely sealed in order to help keep water out.
Stucco should never be installed on or below the grade level. Water will weep up and make its way behind the exterior stucco and become trapped. Wood rot and mold growth are the usual result.
All areas along windows should be fully sealed and caulked in order to help avoid water penetration. Cracks in the stucco can also let water in. All cracks and voids should be properly sealed and re-coated by a stucco contractor in order to avoid water damage.
All areas around chimneys should also be properly sealed. These are areas where a great deal of expansion and contraction occur. Properly configured chimney flashings are a must particularly in stucco applications.
Stucco is a very popular exterior siding material, however it must be properly installed, and with great care in order to avoid hidden water damage and mold growth.
New Jersey Home Inspectors
New Jersey Home Inspections