Why Does New Stucco Crack?

Stucco is one of the most popular materials used on the interior and exterior of homes around the country. Not only is it a cost-effective option, but it is also very durable and gives a unique appearance to your home. Whether you currently have a stucco home or know someone who does, you’ve likely heard that stucco is prone to cracking on occasion. But why does new stucco crack? In this brief post, we’ll explore why stucco cracks and how to prevent cracks from occurring.

Why Does New Stucco Crack?

Like virtually all materials used to finish the exterior of homes, stucco can experience cracks throughout its life cycle. Contrary to popular belief, this is completely normal. However, the degrees to which stucco cracks do vary and should be dealt with according to how serious the cracks are.

If you’ve recently purchased a home with stucco or applied stucco to your current residence, it’s only natural to worry if you begin to notice cracks. However, unless the cracks are quite serious, you shouldn’t be overly concerned. Of course, if you begin noticing numerous or large cracks, you should have a stucco professional come to inspect your property quickly.

One of the most common reasons new stucco can crack is because of a lack of moist curing. When you apply stucco, it is crucial that the material sets properly, or your stucco will be prone to cracks. The easiest way to ensure this is by hiring a stucco professional to help ensure that the material is applied correctly.

A second common cause of cracking in new stucco is caused by a type of plywood used during installation. If the crack looks like a spider web, it’s the result of the plywood and is nothing to worry about. However, other types of cracks could be a sign of more serious issues.

When Do Cracks Become a Problem?

If you do notice your stucco cracking, it’s important you get it repaired by a professional as quickly as possible. Failing to fix a crack quickly can result in spreading, which can ultimately cause further foundation issues. Typically, any crack under 1/16 of an inch should be considered minor, and anything larger than that should be addressed as soon as possible.

If you’ve noticed cracking in your stucco, please give us a call, and we’ll work with you to find a solution for your specific needs. An unaddressed stucco crack can cause serious issues in the long term, so be sure to give us a call today!