Dryvit Stucco Installation is a complex process that requires special equipment. It should only be performed by a licensed and insured contractor.
A weep screed and control joints are installed to minimize water damage. The corner trim is also secured to create clean lines and protect the stucco.
A scratch coat is then applied. It must dry thoroughly before the brown or leveling jacket is applied.
Stucco is a labor-intensive material that requires skilled application. It also requires specialized application tools and safety equipment like eye protection and gloves. For these reasons, it’s best to entrust the job to qualified stucco contractors. The cost of this material varies greatly depending on the size and complexity of the project. Some contractors charge per square foot, while others base their price on the surface area of the building. A square foot is a standard unit of measurement, equal to 12 inches by 12 inches. Understanding how these calculations are made before hiring a contractor is important.
Stucco can be applied to a variety of substrates, including masonry and concrete surfaces. The cost of a new stucco installation over masonry walls will usually be lower than that over wood. This is because masonry walls don’t require lath and can be covered directly by the base coat and finish coats.
In addition to the cost of materials, the price of stucco will depend on the type of finish and other details that are included in the design. Some finishes, such as a catface texture or lace texture, will require two finish coats, which will increase the price. Other details, such as the trim work around windows and doors, will also increase the price.
Another factor that will impact the cost of the stucco is whether it will be installed over a drywall or over a bare concrete surface. If a drywall is used, the cost of the installation will be higher because the wall must be prepared before the stucco can be applied.
A stucco recoat can also be more expensive than a new installation, especially if the existing plaster is in poor condition. This can include things like extensive pressure washing, crack repair and patching.
It is also important to consider the environmental impact of the stucco, and to choose a material that is best for your environment. Both EIFS and traditional stucco offer advantages in this regard. EIFS offers added insulation, which can save energy costs and reduce the demand on heating and cooling systems.
Materials
While stucco offers a unique look and many customization options, it requires expertise and precision to install. It also needs to be able to withstand changes in temperature and settling. To ensure that your home’s exterior stucco is installed properly, consider hiring a professional to do the work for you. A reputable company will ensure that the job is done correctly and to code, preventing cracks and preserving your home’s structural integrity.
The first step in preparing the wall for stucco is to apply a moisture barrier. This is typically an asphalt-saturated paper or a manufactured plastic-based sheet called a “building wrap.” The water-resistant barrier must protect the framing from moisture damage but still allow water vapor to pass through the structure. It is important to use a material that will not cause mold growth or staining.
Next, a layer of metal lath is applied to the structure’s sheathing. The lath has holes that are about 1/4-inch wide. A traditional application of stucco is then placed over the lath in three thin coats, known as a “3-coat system.” The first coat, known as the scratch coat, is pressed into the lath and scarified with a tool to create a rough surface. This helps the second coat adhere to the wall.
For new construction, the thickness of the scratch coat should be about 1/8 inch (3 mm). A thicker scratch coat will require more time to set and cure. It is also more difficult to sand and trowel, which will affect the final texture of your stucco. The scratch coat is made from a mixture of 1 part cement material and 2 1/2 to 4 parts plaster sand. For a faster set, you can add pozzolanic additives to the mix.
A new coat of stucco is an excellent way to refresh a damaged or aging exterior. However, the process is time consuming and labor intensive. It is best to hire a professional to do the work so that it is done properly the first time. This will save you money and time in the long run.
Preparation
Achieving a high-quality stucco finish requires specialized materials and a skilled technique. Before applying the first coat, it is important to prepare the walls by repairing any existing damage and protecting them from moisture intrusion. This can be done with a high-quality caulk or patching compound. Larger cracks and holes may require patching with a flexible patching material or even reinforced mesh tape.
The next step is to mix the stucco mixture. The ingredients should be thoroughly mixed to achieve a smooth, workable consistency. This will allow the stucco to adhere well to the wall and form a durable, attractive surface. Using pre-mixed bags of stucco can save time and money, but it is best to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for mixing ratios and techniques.
Once the stucco mixture is prepared, it is applied to the walls with a trowel. The first layer, known as the scratch coat, should be about 3/8 inch thick. It should be smoothed evenly, and a notched trowel can be used to create horizontal grooves that will provide an excellent surface for the brown coat to adhere to. The brown coat is about 3/8 inch thick and can be smoothed or textured to match the desired look of the final coat.
A thin, final coat is then spread over the brown coat. This layer can be textured or left smooth. It can also be colored with colorants. Once the final coat is applied and textured, it must cure before paint or other finishes can be added.
Corners and joints need special attention during this process. These areas are prone to cracking and separation, so it is important to make sure that the corners and joints are well-sealed before applying the final coat. The best way to do this is by using a metal lathe corner bead that has been specifically designed for stucco.
Stucco can be a beautiful addition to any home or business. However, it is a complex process and should only be undertaken by a professional stucco contractor with the necessary experience and skills to complete the job.
Installation
Stucco is a kind of plaster that’s applied in thin layers to weatherproof and protect the underlying structure. It’s a popular choice for homes because it adds aesthetic appeal and durability. The process of installing stucco can be time-consuming, and you’ll need to understand the steps involved before beginning the project.
To ensure that the stucco adheres properly, the first step is to put up sheathing materials. The sheathing material can be plywood, oriented strand board (OSB), cement board, or exterior grade gypsum sheathing. You can also choose to have an open frame, but it’s recommended that you use sheathing material in order to prevent water damage and other problems.
Next, the wall is prepped with a bonding agent or stucco wrap. Once the area is clean and dry, a scratch coat is then applied. This coat is a 1/4- to 1/2-inch layer of the plaster, and it needs to be thumbprint hard before the next step can be done. It’s important to note that this stage can take up to 36 hours to dry completely.
After the scratch coat dries, it is then smoothed with a stucco float. After this, a brown coat is applied. This layer is a 1/8-inch thick coat that makes the surface of the wall more durable. You can also add a decorative texture to this coat, and it should be wet-cured for seven days.
The finish coat is then applied with a trowel and textured. This coat gives the wall its traditional look. It can be tinted or not, depending on your preference. An acrylic finish can be added to the final coat for protection against damage.
It’s best to hire a licensed professional for the job. They will be more familiar with local building codes and ordinances, so they can make sure the finished product complies with all regulations. They will also have the right tools to work safely, especially at heights. Moreover, they will have access to the right materials, which may be difficult for you to find on your own. Lastly, they can help you avoid costly mistakes and save time by ensuring that all the steps are followed correctly.