Stucco Cracks and Your Home

      Stucco is a common exterior covering used in residential construction throughout California. Stucco is a favorite because it is relatively cheap, easy to maintain, and looks good. However, cracks and defects in stucco are fairly common and, in certain instances, can lead to a variety of problems for a homeowner.
      One problem is that moisture, from rain or from sprinklers, can enter the walls of the home through stucco cracks. The moisture can get behind the walls through to roofs, decks, and to window and door frames. Once inside these dark and unseen areas, the moisture can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. Mold and mildew will accelerate the rotting of wooden framing members, and potentially create health problems for the inhabitants.
      Stucco cracks can also increase the amount of insects that can enter the home, leaving a homeowner to battle ant and spider problems. Finally, most homeowners find these cracks as just plain unsightly, especially when they reach a certain size or result in pieces of the stucco flaking off.
      Stucco is a mixture of portland cement, sand and other materials. This mixture is used in conjunction with building paper, chicken wire, and lathing. Stucco has very little flexibility and is brittle, which is why it will often crack. Hairline cracks occur frequently and are not of too much concern. When larger cracks occur, they can lead to more serious problems, however.
      There are two categories of stucco cracks. The first category of cracks are internal stress cracks. These occur when the cement used in the mixture shrinks as it hardens or cures. Basically, this is a problem with the materials used while mixing the stucco. This improper mixture of materials leads to shrinkage and cracks at the center of large panels. Internal stress cracks can be reduced or contained by expansion or control joints, and by limiting the size and configuration of the stucco areas.
      The second category of cracks are external stress cracks. These occur when external forces affect the cured stucco. Such external forces include earthquakes, ground swelling or settlement, thermal expansion or contraction, and the wind.
      It is important for homeowners to pay close attention to cracks in the stucco on their homes. Stucco cracks can be an indicator that the structure is not able to adequately withstand structural forces. If a homeowner is experiencing water intrusion into his or her home, stucco cracks may be the culprit. Finally, cracking in stucco may be an indicator that the lath or plaster was not properly installed on the home.
      Minor "hairline" cracks are usually not a concern, but large cracks that span across the face of a wall or ceiling or that go in two different directions are a concern. The same is true for stucco cracks that have resulted in pieces of the stucco flaking off.
      If homeowners find such large cracks on the exterior of their home, they should contact a professional contractor to do a thorough investigation.

Disclaimer- These materials prepared by Shinnick & Ryan LLP are for informational purposes only and are not legal advice. Transmission of the information is not intended to create, and receipt does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship. Online readers should not act upon this information without seeking professional counsel.  [Full Disclaimer]

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