Stucco can be used to cover bricks, concrete and cinder blocks, but it is mostly used for exterior construction. Stucco is made from aggregates like cement or sand, water, and binders. It is applied to a surface while it’s still wet. Stucco is often sprayed and hardened as it dries. Stucco today often contains acrylic fiber and other synthetic materials, which add strength and weatherproofing properties. Stucco can withstand many climates and lasts for decades. You can repair stucco that has cracks or holes or any other damage by spraying new stucco.

Looking at Old Stucco

Stucco should be applied to a surface that can create a bond. If a solid bond is possible, stucco can also be applied to existing stucco. No stucco repair can be done to stucco that is old, dirty, or loose. Check the stucco to make sure there are no cracks or hollow spots before applying the new stucco. Visual inspection can help you identify cracks. You can locate hollow spots by lightly tapping old stucco with a hammer and listening to the dull sound caused by a vacuum.

How to clean and repair an old stucco?

Hand-fill major cracks in the old stucco. Use approved stucco mixture. You should chip away any hollow spots in the old stucco and then hand-patched it. To remove dirt, contaminants, and debris from old stucco, a stiff brush should be used to scrub the entire surface. To clean stucco, use a scrub brush and a hose. A pressure washer is recommended for heavily stained stucco. Let the stucco finish dry completely.

Surface Prep Old Stucco

A bonding agent must be applied before you apply new stucco. Bonding agents are liquids that bond stucco to its substrate. Using a roller or brush, apply the liquid bonding agent to the stucco. The manufacturer’s instructions usually state that the bonding agents are a “one-time re-emulsifying agent.”

After the bonding agent dries, it will activate and bond the old stucco to the new stucco. After drying, a bonding agent cannot be activated more than once. Otherwise, it will need to be applied again. For specific product applications and coverage, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. Only use the maximum amount of bonding agent that is allowed to be sprayed on the same day as the new wet stucco. The bonding agent will not be effective if it isn’t covered within 24 hours of application.