Naples, Florida's Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and hot summers requires long-term stucco waterproofing. Stucco provides endurance and protection against the ever-changing temperatures of Florida.
Most homes in Florida are not complete without stucco. Learn how to effectively waterproof your stucco home with Smith Plastering Inc., Florida's most trusted plastering supplier.
What is Stucco?
Stucco, also known as render, is a cement-based siding made from a binder, aggregates, and water that delivers natural and textured aesthetics. It is often used for interior and exterior surfaces in both residential and commercial properties.
Advantages of Stucco
- Low-Cost: Stucco is inexpensive. Low labor costs combined with reasonably priced materials result in affordable home investment projects.
- Decorative: Stucco is available in several ranges of colors, patterns, and distinctive texture options. From southwestern to modern, it is applicable for any style of home.
- Durable: Stucco protects properties from weather and other outside elements. Both exterior and interior finishes are applied in one or multiple layers over a masonry structure. Stucco may last fifty years, depending on maintenance and local climates.
- Easy to Use: The average homeowner can easily reproduce simple techniques that favor patterns and texture. Notably, stucco is resilient and requires little maintenance.
- Versatile: Stucco is easy to install and is versatile in regards to application on concrete masonry and wood frame buildings.
Stucco Waterproofing Techniques | Smith Plastering Inc.
Basic Stucco Installation
Understanding Stucco fundamentals is essential when creating a façade to protect a property from rain and moisture. Commonly, plywood or an oriented strand board is used for the first layer with stucco layers to follow:
- First Layer of Weather Resistant Barrier (Asphalt paper/Grade D paper)
- 3D Plastic Drainage Matrix
- Second Layer of Weather Resistant Barrier
- Lath (Fiberglass Mat/Metal)
- Stucco (3-Layered)
Flashing
Flashing is a piece of metal, either aluminum, steel, or PVC, installed to a structure to prevent water from passing through gaps.
Stucco applied to certain openings is not impervious to the elements over time. However, stucco with a properly installed flashing will adequately cover and protect from damages. Flashing is applicable on:
- Doors
- Parts of walls
- Roofs
- Windows
Rainscreen Gap
Rainscreen Gap, also known as Drainage Matrix, or Drainage Mat/Air Gap, is used to build a gap to allow enclosed moisture to escape behind the walls. Rainscreen Gaps promote evaporation because of increased airflow and when used with weather-resistant barriers, they prevent moisture creation that spreads to additional layers.
Sealant
Applying a sealant is another way to waterproof stucco. This is done by simply applying sealant directly to the stucco.
- Clean
- Paint sealant directly
- Allow air to dry
Waterproof Barrier
Before applying stucco, waterproof barriers can be applied.
- Clean the base wall
- Roll out/unroll the barrier
- Apply barrier
- Apply stucco
Waterproof Paint
Applying waterproof paint is considered the easiest, least reliable method to waterproof stucco.
- Paint and stucco is damaged
- Clean off stucco with water and soap
- Apply waterproof paint and stucco
- Clean
- Air dry
Naples, Florida's Leading Stucco Contractor | Smith Plastering Inc.
Smith Plastering, Inc. is a family-owned and operated, locally managed company specializing in interior and exterior finishes of residential and commercial properties. We offer stucco, drywall, painting, and metal framing services to Naples, Florida, and the surrounding areas.
Our team of experts has over 20 years of construction experience, are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, provides quality craftsmanship, and delivers exceptional customer service.
Call Smith Plastering, Inc. at 239-594-7537 or connect with us online today for a FREE quote on your upcoming project.
