Articles » Stucco Cracking: All You Ever Wanted to Know

Stucco Cracking:  All You Ever Wanted To Know

Let’s face it, over time cracking occurs

If a crack occurs during the first 30 days and it is larger than the thickness of a penny, it can be patched with the same color coat material.  Cracks that are visible from more than 10 feet away or are a source of leaking and should be patched.  If a crack is patched and then reappears, this could indicate a structural or substrate movement problem. 

The two main reasons for stucco cracking are shrinkage and structural. 

Cracks due to shrinkage occur as the water evaporates from the cement mix.  These are generally not seen after the final color coat is applied.  Hairline cracking in the color coat occurs when stress is applied to the plaster membrane.  This stress can come from a variety of external sources.  Some examples are ground movement, foundation settlement, frame/structure movement, water penetration and offset framing.

Most cracking is cosmetic in nature.  Acceptable cracking to one person may be objectionable to another.  If there is a question about stucco cracking, consulting a licensed contractor to inspect the structure is advised.