Historic Stuccos & Renders

Historically, stucco or external plaster was applied over brickwork to protect it from the elements. As the stucco fails, it deteriorates, leaving behind patches of exposed brick. Though charming and quaint, partial stucco and exposed brick wasn’t a design choice. It’s deterioration.

Common causes of stucco and render failures include:

• Low quality or improperly formulated stucco materials


• Improper surface preparations


• Poor workmanship


• Improper curing conditions


• Improper use of flashing materials


• Failure, cracking, or movement of masonry behind the stucco


• Natural weathering


• Soluble salt damage

Repairing stucco and render failures is a job requiring an experienced mason. Whether a small crack has appeared or a whole sheet of stucco has fallen off of the wall, prompt attention can prevent further damage and masonry deterioration. Remember that the stucco or plaster was installed as a protective layer. Once a whole is punched in this layer, the exposed brick is at risk. Now, wind, rain, snow, and ice can get in and erode the masonry. In addition, further damage to the masonry and stucco is likely as water becomes trapped between the layers. As you can imagine, it’s less expensive to repair the stucco than to deal with extensive deterioration.

• Pitting
• Discoloration
• Damage to surrounding windows and plants
• Masonry and interior damage due to water or chemical solution penetration
• Expansion of soluble salts