How to Repair Synthetic Stucco

When repairing synthetic stucco, it is important that swift action is taken. Allowing water or other damages to persist can quickly create issues with the structural supports and underlying wood, creating a much larger problem. Although permanent repairs to synthetic stucco do not exist, temporary solutions are available.

Step 1 - Locate and Assess the Damage

Assessment of where the damage is occurring and the severity will allow repairs to be complete and minimize any spreading of previous issues. In order to permanently repair the synthetic stucco, it is important to also be aware of what caused the damage in the first place. Two of the most common damages to synthetic stucco are termites and water damage.

Step 2 - Determine Appropriate Actions

If termites are the cause, call a local exterminator. Often an exterminator can provide information about where the termites were coming from and other areas that might have been affected, as well as removing the pests permanently.

If water damage is the problem, install flashing to the at-risk parts of the roof. Valley flashing, rake flashing, and diverter flashing should be used along the roof joints and kick-out flashing where the roof meets the walls.

Step 3 - Caulk

Use caulk in all seems around the moldings of doors and windows as well as the sill joint and the window jamb. Make sure enough caulk is used that it begins to ooze out the edges.

Step 4 - Flash Around Windows

Install window specific flashing around the sill of a window as well as around any decks. Specialized flashing is made specifically for many different types of windows.

Step 5 - Flash Around Chimneys

Install kick-out, cap, and cricket flashing all around the base of the chimney in order to block water seepage where the chimney meets the roof.

Step 6 - Caulk Cracks

Apply caulk into trouble stops or cracks that need repairs but are not large enough to require flashing. Often termites can enter in unusual spots or cracks can begin in places with heavy use. Use enough caulk that some oozes out the edges making an adequate seal.

Step 7 - Flash Trouble Spots

Flashing should be installed in larger trouble spots where caulk will not adequately plug holes. There is a multitude of styles to choose from for every imaginable situation.

Step 8 - Be Watchful

Be vigilant about the areas repaired and watch for any further damage. Flashing and caulking repair are only temporary solutions before the entire area will need to be completely re-stuccoed.