Hi, I'm replacing the windows in my home while remodeling. I removed the old wooden brickmould from the previous insert windows, re-framed the window frame, and am replacing with renovations windows complete with a 2" brickmould. I moved a window over 3 feet and have to do some stucco repair. I am planning on using portland cement with a scratch coat and then rendering it with another coat and then dashing it. For the outside of the windows, I plan to seal the 3 sides that have existing stucco (about 1/4 of an inch) with silicone. The top will also have a drip cap. The wall where there the window used to be, requires stuccoing. I'm wondering if I should leave a small gap between the stucco and the window by putting a piece of channeling in 1/4" from the brickmould, or if I should stucco straight to the brickmould? Thoughts? If someone has a better idea, please let me know. I live in Edmonton, Canada so the winters can get pretty harsh. Thanks!

I am looking for hints on how to smooth out spackling compound or joint compound or putty to get an even surface with the surrounding material. No matter how I manipulate the putty knife, the wet surface of the new material tears apart or gets little gouges in it and those need to be filled in with another layer of joint compound etc. the next day after what was there has dried.