Combining Cladding: Exploring The Possibility Of Adding Siding To Stucco

Stucco homes are popular in Georgia, the southern US, and southwestern states. While stucco is low-maintenance, energy-efficient, aesthetically pleasing, and durable, it can crack. If you're looking to change the look of your home or address cracks, you may consider adding siding over stucco.

The short answer is yes, you can add siding over stucco, but it's not a simple process. There are several steps to prepare the stucco for the installation of siding, including repairing any damage to the stucco, installing furring strips, and insulating the walls.

Repairing stucco cracks

Stucco is a durable material, but due to its rigid nature, it can develop cracks and holes over time. If you notice a crack in your stucco, it is important to seal it from water to prevent further deterioration.

If the crack is less than 1/8 inch, you can repair it yourself with a product like Quikrete. For cracks larger than 1/8 inch, a professional should be hired to fix it.

• Widen the crack to a minimum of 1/4 inch using a chisel and hammer. The edges of the crack should be vertical or bevelled in an inverted "V". If possible, back cut the crack so that its base is slightly wider than its top.
• Remove any loose material with a brush.
• Cut the nozzle tip of the stucco repair product on an angle to match the width of the crack.
• Load the product into a standard caulk gun.
• Slowly draw the gun down the crack, forcing a bead of stucco repair caulk deep into the crack.
• Allow the repair to cure for 24 hours.
• Cover the repaired area with a water-based paint that matches the colour of the exterior.

Once the stucco is repaired, you can then follow the steps to add siding to your home.

Installing furring strips

To install furring strips, you will need wooden screws that are 1.5 to 2 inches in length. Mark the locations for the furring strips on the stucco wall, spacing them 16 inches apart. You will also need to install furring strips next to window and door frames and along the outer edges of the walls to secure the J-channel, brick moulding, and end pieces. Drill holes in the furring strips about 8 inches apart, then hold the strips against the stucco wall and screw them in using the wooden screws.

When installing furring strips, it is important to use treated wood to prevent moisture absorption. Additionally, make sure the furring strips are level and plumb before screwing them into the wall. You can use a nail gun or a hammer drill to attach the furring strips to the stucco.

Once the furring strips are installed, you can move on to the next step of adding insulation and then installing the siding.

Insulating the exterior

Repairing and Preparing the Stucco

Before adding insulation, it is crucial to assess and repair any existing damage to the stucco. This includes fixing moisture damage, levelling the wall, scraping loose or crumbling pieces, and patching any cracks with mortar. It is important to ensure that the stucco is in good condition to create a stable base for the insulation.

Installing Furring Strips

Furring strips are long pieces of wood that provide a stable surface for securing the insulation and siding. Typically, 2-by-4-inch furring strips are used, and they should be installed every 16 inches where the siding panels will meet. Furring strips should also be placed along the outer edges of the walls, doors, and window frames for additional support. Use wood screws or concrete screws to secure the furring strips to the stucco wall.

Installing Insulation

To create a flat and even surface for the siding, install rigid foam insulation that is the same thickness or slightly thinner than the furring strips. Cut the insulation to fit securely between the furring strips and glue it in place with a stucco adhesive. This step is crucial for energy efficiency and creating a level base for the siding.

Water Management and Flashing

Proper water management is essential when insulating over stucco. Determine the location of the wall's water control layer, typically behind the insulation and over the exterior sheathing. Provide a drainage gap in front of the water control layer to ensure any moisture can escape. Flash all windows, doors, and penetrations to the water control layer before installing the insulation to prevent water intrusion.

Adding a Vapour Barrier

Consider adding a vapour barrier, such as a home wrap, to further enhance the energy efficiency of your home. A vapour barrier provides external water protection, allows internal moisture to escape, and protects the conditioned air inside your home, resulting in lower heating and cooling costs.

Finalizing the Process

Once the insulation is installed, you can proceed with installing the siding of your choice. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific type of siding you have chosen. Ensure that all penetrations are flashed and sealed to the water control layer to prevent water intrusion.

It is important to note that insulating the exterior of a stucco house is a intricate process, and improper installation can lead to water damage, energy loss, and other issues. Therefore, it is highly recommended to consult with professionals who have experience in this field to ensure the project is completed correctly and safely.

Painting the siding

Once your siding is installed, you can move on to the final touches. Choose from either an exterior oil-based or water-based exterior paint to complete your new siding.

The best way to paint stucco involves a good cleaning, thorough prep, and the right products. Stucco is rigid and prone to cracks, so you'll likely have to do some patching before getting started. There are two types of stucco: traditional and synthetic, also known as EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finishing System). EIFS is typically softer than traditional stucco.

Step 1: Clean the Stucco

• Use a pressure washer to clean the stucco. If you don't own one, you can rent it.
• Before washing, brush the stucco with a soft-bristle vinyl brush to loosen dirt and debris.
• If there is mildew, use a household cleanser designed to kill mildew.
• Ensure the stucco is completely dry after washing.

Step 2: Repair Any Cracks

• Caulking wall cracks before painting depends on the size of the cracks. If you can fit a credit card into the crack, open it up and properly prime and patch it.
• For larger cracks, use a material that matches the texture of your stucco.
• For minor cracks, you can use an acrylic caulk for stucco repair.
• For larger cracks, wait seven to ten days after making repairs before painting.
• If the stucco is new, wait at least 60 days before painting.

Step 3: Prime the Stucco

• Tape off all windows and doors and place a drop cloth or plastic sheeting around any plants or shrubs.
• Use a paintbrush for the edges of the stucco, then switch to a roller to apply an even coat of primer.
• Match your roller nap to your stucco texture (rough, medium, or smooth).

Step 4: Paint the Stucco

• You can spray, brush, or roll the paint onto the stucco.
• Most people opt for a flat sheen when painting stucco to mask any imperfections.
• If you spray the paint, be sure to back roll or back brush afterward for an even finish.
• If painting by hand, cut in the edges before switching to a roller and applying an even coat of paint.
• Ensure the roller nap corresponds to the texture level of your stucco.
• Stucco may require upwards of 30 to 50 percent more paint than usual, depending on the surface texture.

Step 5: Let Dry and Apply Second Coat

• Once the first coat of paint is dry, apply a second coat in the same way as the first.
• Allow the stucco to cure fully before returning it to everyday use.

Removing stucco

Identify the Problem

Before starting the removal process, it is crucial to confirm that there is an issue with the stucco. This can be done by conducting a moisture test with a third-party service, which can cost a few hundred dollars. Alternatively, a small section of stucco can be cut open to check for rot, mould, and other damage.

Remove Damaged Stucco

If there is confirmed damage to the stucco, the next step is to remove the affected pieces. Depending on how the stucco was installed, it may be possible to pull off large chunks at once, expediting the process. This step involves breaking up the stucco and clearing it away to access the underlying layers.

Address Underlying Problems

Once the damaged stucco is removed, the underlying issues need to be addressed. This may include mould remediation and replacing wet insulation, which can foster mould growth. In severe cases, it may be necessary to replace damaged wall studs and panels.

Check for Issues with Doors and Windows

Since issues with stucco are often related to shoddy installation, it is a good idea to inspect the adjacent doors and windows for any problems. If the stucco leak is widespread, the framing of doors and windows may also be affected. As the house is already stripped down, it is an opportune time to address these issues.

Re-Wrap and Re-Side the House

After addressing the stucco and underlying issues, the house needs to be re-wrapped and re-sided. Homeowners can choose to stick with stucco, opting for new stucco siding, or they may decide to change the exterior by selecting from various style-forward siding options, such as James Hardie fibre cement or Everlast composite siding.

It is important to note that removing and replacing stucco can be a costly and time-consuming process, with prices ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 for an entire house. The duration of the project can vary, typically lasting between 10 and 18 days.

Frequently asked questions