New homes or homes getting a new stucco finish will benefit from a professionally installed finish. With stucco, the proper installation is everything. The preparation and underlying materials make a big difference in the longevity and durability of a stucco finish.
Stucco application over wood and over masonry require different installation details. Stucco applied over masonry surfaces can be applied in a two-coat or a three-coat system over a bonding agent applied to the masonry.
A two-coat system consists of a base layer 3/8th of an inch thick and a finish coat 1/8th inch thick. A three-coat system consists of a base layer ¼ of inch thick, a second layer ¼ of an inch thick, and a finish coat 1/8 of inch thick over masonry or cast concrete. Proper drying time must be allowed between layers of stucco.
Stucco applications over wood require more steps. A water-resistant barrier is required. Lathing must be correctly applied. A three-coat stucco application is required. The first layer or scratch coat is 3/8ths inch thick, and the second layer or brown coat is also 3/8ths inch thick is applied as soon as the first coat has enough strength and rigidity to hold it. Then a finish coat of 1/8th inch thick material is applied. This all has to be done to exact specifications using a mist cure as needed. The stucco must end before the wall meets the ground. This is an exacting job that requires well-trained professionals. We in stucco services Sarasota are here to do that job.