Stucco And Brick: A Match Made In Heaven?

Can You Install Brick Over Stucco Siding on a House?

If you're looking to update the exterior of your house, you may be considering installing brick over stucco siding. While it is possible to install brick over stucco, there are several factors and considerations to keep in mind. In this article, we will explore the process, benefits, and potential challenges of installing brick over stucco siding.

Prep work: repairing cracks, screwing furring strips, and insulating

Before installing brick over stucco siding on a house, there is a lot of prep work to ensure a long-lasting, energy-efficient, and modern exterior. Here is a detailed guide to the preparation process:

Repairing Cracks

Firstly, assess and repair any existing moisture damage to the stucco. Scrape away any loose or crumbling pieces of stucco from the cracks, and then patch the cracks with mortar. Don't worry too much about the appearance, as this will be covered up by the brick. The key is to ensure that the stucco is moisture-proof.

Screwing Furring Strips

Furring strips provide a stable surface to secure the new brick siding. Use 2-by-4-inch strips made from treated wood, as any moisture absorbed by the stucco can be transferred to the furring strips, causing them to rot if untreated. Pre-drill holes into the furring strips about eight inches apart. Hold the strip in place on the stucco wall and insert the screws through the holes and into the stucco. You will need to install a furring strip where each of the siding panels meet, as well as along the outer edges of the walls to secure J-channel, brick moulding, and end pieces.

Insulating

To insulate your home and reduce energy costs, install rigid foam insulation that is the same thickness or slightly less than the furring strips. Cut each piece of insulation to fit snugly between the furring strips and glue it in place using a stucco adhesive. Continue this process until the entire area is insulated.

Brick veneer: a simple project that can be finished in a weekend

Brick veneer is a simple and cost-effective way to get the look and feel of solid brick. It is a building and design technique that uses non-structural materials to create the look and feel of a structural material, such as brick. Brick veneer is much thinner and lighter than regular brick, making it an ideal choice for a DIY project.

Prepare the Area:

Dig about 6 inches of soil away from the foundation to access the area. Use a power washer to clean the foundation and stucco finish, removing dirt and debris. Allow the foundation to dry completely.

Inspect and Repair:

Inspect the stucco for any loose or damaged areas. Use a paint scraper or putty knife to remove any loose stucco. Ensure the surface is smooth and sturdy before proceeding.

Install Flashing Strips:

Attach flashing strips along the bottom edge of the foundation. Screw them through the stucco and into the concrete to prevent gaps and water seepage.

Install Metal Wall Ties:

Nail metal wall ties in a staggered arrangement about 2 to 3 feet apart. These will provide support for the veneer bricks.

Apply Mortar:

Spread a 1-inch layer of mortar over the stucco using a masonry trowel, covering a 2-foot area at a time.

Attach Brick Veneer:

Start at the top of the foundation and work downwards. Press the brick veneer into the mortar, staggering the bricks so the vertical edges are not in a straight line.

Create Drainage Holes:

Insert a 2-inch-long piece of rubber hose every 2 feet along the centre of the brick installation area. These drainage holes will prevent water buildup behind the bricks.

Check for Level:

Use a level to verify that the bricks are being installed straight. Check every 2 feet to ensure accuracy.

Install Veneer Around Windows:

Install the brick veneer around windows in a vertical pattern to create a framed edge.

Remove Rubber Hoses:

After the mortar has completely dried (about 2-5 days), pull out the rubber hoses to leave weep holes for drainage.

With these steps, you can transform the look of your home's exterior in a single weekend. It is a simple project that can add rustic charm and increase the value of your home.

Water absorption test: to determine if stucco can bond to brick

Stucco can be applied to brick veneer, but before you begin, it's important to determine whether the brick will be able to withstand the application process and support the stucco once it's applied. One way to do this is by conducting a water absorption test, which will give you an idea of the brick's porosity and its ability to withstand water damage.

Preparing the Brick Samples

For this test, you will need to select three to five brick samples from the lot you intend to use. These samples should be dried in a ventilated oven at a temperature between 105°C and 115°C until they reach a constant mass.

Once the bricks are completely dry, allow them to cool to room temperature. Weigh each brick and record this weight as M1.

Soaking the Bricks

After weighing, the bricks should be fully submerged in clean water at a temperature of 27°C ±2°C for 24 hours. This temperature is important, as it is part of the standardised test.

Calculating Water Absorption

After 24 hours, remove the bricks from the water and use a damp cloth to wipe away any excess water. Weigh each brick again within three minutes of removal and record this weight as M2.

The percentage of water absorption can then be calculated using the following formula:

Water Absorption (%) = [(M2-M1)/M1] x 100

Interpreting the Results

The results of this test will give you an idea of how much water the bricks can absorb. This is important because if the bricks absorb too much water, it can affect the strength of the construction and the durability of the structure.

For first-class bricks, water absorption should not exceed 15%. For second-class bricks, it should not exceed 20%, and for third-class bricks, it should not be more than 25%.

If the bricks you intend to use for your project do not meet these standards, it may be an indication of poor manufacturing or clay composition. In this case, it is recommended to not use these bricks, as there is no treatment or remedy to resolve this issue.

Additional Considerations

It is important to note that this test is just one aspect of determining whether stucco can be applied to brick. Other factors, such as the condition of the brick and the application process, will also play a role in the overall success of the project.

Additionally, while brick veneer can be a suitable base for stucco, it is always recommended to consult with a professional before beginning any construction project to ensure the best results and to avoid potential issues.

Advantages of stucco: protection from termites, mould, and fire

Stucco is a popular siding choice for homes, and for good reason. One of its biggest advantages is its ability to protect a home from termites, mould, and fire.

Stucco is a multi-layered system for the exterior walls of a structure, typically consisting of five layers: an exterior finish, a protective mesh layer, an insulating material, an adhesive layer, and a substrate. While stucco itself doesn't contain any materials that termites can eat, it does provide an excellent medium for them to travel through and access their preferred food sources, such as wood. However, with proper maintenance and regular inspections, stucco can help protect your home from termite infestations.

Stucco is also highly resistant to mould. Its components make it resistant to rot and moisture infiltration, which can help prevent mould growth. Additionally, stucco's ability to divert rainwater away from the exterior of the building further contributes to mould prevention.

Fire resistance is another key advantage of stucco. The materials used in stucco, such as cement, lime, sand, and water, are highly fire-resistant. In the event of a fire, stucco can resist flames for up to an hour, giving residents valuable time to evacuate safely. This fire resistance also provides peace of mind, knowing that your home is better protected from fire hazards.

To summarise, stucco offers excellent protection against termites, mould, and fire. Its durability, combined with proper maintenance and regular inspections, can help ensure that your home stays safe and protected for years to come.

Disadvantages of stucco: texture draws dirt, regular cleaning required, and costly labour

Stucco is a popular choice for homes due to its durability, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. However, it has some disadvantages that homeowners should be aware of. One of the main drawbacks of stucco is its tendency to draw dirt and require regular cleaning. The textured surface of stucco, especially the popular sand finish with its grainy, textured look, can accumulate dirt and grime over time. While stucco is relatively easy to clean, with a simple hose-down often being sufficient, it does require regular upkeep to maintain its appearance. Homeowners should inspect their stucco walls for any cracks or damage and clean them at least once or twice a year to prevent dirt and dust accumulation.

Another disadvantage of stucco is the high labour cost associated with its installation and maintenance. Stucco application is a specialised and labour-intensive process that requires skilled contractors. The labour-intensive nature of the work increases the overall cost of installing stucco finishes. Additionally, stucco is not considered a DIY-friendly project, and repairs or installations are typically left to experts. The need for professional expertise adds to the overall expense of maintaining a stucco exterior.

Stucco is also known for its lack of flexibility, which can lead to cracking. In areas where the soil shifts, the rigid nature of stucco can result in cracking as the home settles. While the addition of polymers to the stucco mix has helped address this issue, it still requires careful installation and proper maintenance to prevent water retention and eventual water damage. Stucco is prone to water retention, especially if the surface is not applied by an expert, which can lead to moisture-related problems and costly repairs over time.

Overall, while stucco offers many benefits, it is important to consider the disadvantages, including the texture's tendency to draw dirt, the regular cleaning and maintenance required, and the costly labour involved in installation and repairs. These factors can impact the decision of whether to choose stucco for a home exterior.

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