Stucco, on the other hand, is an exterior siding that is prepared from a combination of Portland cement, sand, water, and lime. Another disadvantage of having a stucco exterior is that it is expected to find stucco cracking after several years because of settling, impact, or freeze-thaw cycles. Stucco repair is generally considered to be done during the spring or summer. Still, minor work can also be done in the winter. This article takes a detailed look at some factors that can be considered before repairing stucco siding in cold weather.
Assessing Damage
Before doing any stucco repairs in winter, it is advisable to carefully evaluate the needed fixing area. Avoid places where cracks are 1/16 inch or greater because they reveal structural problems that require fixing.
Also check for:
- Holes that are created by stucco tend to emit a drumming noise when one knocks it.
- Vertical or diagonal cracks, meaning that the frames of the building are faulty
- Other symptoms include water damage, such as stains, blistering, or parts that seem ‘spongy.’
- For anything beyond a thin horizontal crack, seek the remedies of a stucco specialist before attempting touch-ups in freezing conditions.
Small Crack Repairs
Hairline cracks of cement surfaces not exceeding 1/16 inch wide may be easily repaired in winter, provided suitable materials and methods are used.
Here’s how:
Materials Needed
– Stucco patching compound
– Concrete bonding agent
– Masonry caulk
– Patching knives or trowels
Prep Work
The crack should first be expanded with a grinding wheel to form a V-shape to place the epoxy. Simply get rid of any loose particles and dirt. If the wall is painted with paint, then scrape and feather paint in the surrounding area.
With more than 40°F dry days, find time to apply a concrete bonding agent to all crack surfaces following the manufacturer’s instructions. The bonding agent should be allowed to set up or tack up.
Patching the Crack
Over the groove, spread and slightly build up acrylic stucco patch compound. Again, make the patch area flat and smooth using a patching knife or trowel. This patch is to blend it with the other stucco colors on the wall. Let the patch dry completely.
Sealing & Painting
After the masonry caulk the whole joint, it is thoroughly cured, then brush over the crack to close it. As soon as the caulk sets, find or create a paint match to the existing surfaces. The repaired area should now withstand freezing temperatures.
Larger Crack Repairs
Any cracks with a width more than 1/16 inch or signs of structural problems, stucco repair in winter becomes a bad idea. Cold weather application is also an issue; even more, the root cause of the problem will only get worse over time. It is highly advisable to see a professional for proper diagnosis and repair in the case of a boat.
Temporary Winter Fixes
Suppose significant stucco damage uncovered in winter needs a more involved repair than what weather allows.
In that case, temporary measures can protect it through the cold months:
- Apply the wall’s fiberglass insulation into every crack, then put on plastic sheeting and fasten it with trim screws.
- Apply the covers of plywood over the affected parts, especially the edges, to use the caulk/sealant
- Cover the affected particles with heavy types of plastic and seal them very well with no trace of moisture entrapment.
- Cover up the cracks in walls with metal flashing to ensure that water does NOT seep, including
These are not permanent solutions within infrastructure; they might at least stop further damage and allow more permanent repairs in warmer months.
Working in Cold Weather
When minor stucco repair in winter can’t wait:
- Work only on days when they are dry and temperatures above 40°F.
- If the repair area is below 40°F then tent and heat the repair area
- Encourage more drying time in between steps
- Employ only patching and coating products suitable for use in severely exposed areas.
Minor stucco repairs are possible in winter, provided the correct methods, materials, and planning are followed. However, severe damages or potential indications of the failure of the structure are ideally repaired when it is still cold.
Consulting Professionals
If one is seeking to perfectly diagnose and remedy failed stucco, consider hiring an inspection company or a contractor trained in stucco inspection. Many problems behind the walls can be revealed if companies use IR thermography. They also have equipment and materials for a proper, long-lasting repair in inclement weather.
Preventing Damage
To avoid needing future stucco repairs:
- They must be inspected annually for RCC cracks. If any RCC structure is altered, the insurance company should be notified.
- Avoid showering walls with water drops and drain away water
- Consider elastomeric paint depending on what will be needed for better sealing against the weather.
- Assessing the feasibility of switching to synthetic stucco when cracking is still an issue
Conclusion
Although temperatures during this season restrict some steps involved in stucco repair, small cracks, and patches can be effectively worked upon over the winter. Seek professional examinations for anything more than small cracks. As long as somewhat realistic expectations are set regarding work limitations in cold weather, stucco can be successfully repaired in winter.