Simple Guide About Applying Stucco Siding

If you are looking for an inexpensive and almost maintenance free way to add siding to your house then stucco is one option that can enter on your list. This inexpensive siding is quite durable and you will even see while you are applying stucco siding that it really is every homeowner's dream. Its presence in many countries has been greatly influenced by the Mexican and Spanish building styles. Below we have outlined a few step to consider when applying stucco siding.

Step 1: Preparation

The first thing you will need to know is if the wall you are applying stucco to already has stucco or just another concrete surface. If it is the former then chip away any old and cracking stucco before making an application. If you are just applying to an concrete area then ensure that this area is clean and free from dust before applying stucco siding.

Before you apply the stucco to the area in question, try to seal the cracks that you have noticed by using caulking.

Step 2: Apply a Binding Component or water

You can either buy a binding component help the stucco adhere to the wall you intend on applying it to or you may dampen it water. If the wall is made of any other material except cement, them you will need to use a metal netting when applying stucco siding.

Step 3: Prepare the Stucco

Stucco is a mixture of Portland cement, water, sand and aggregates. You will fist need to have an idea of the area that you will be covering with the stucco to avoid mixing in excess or not mixing enough. As a guide you can mix one part Portland cement with eight parts of sand (not sea sand).

Step 4: Apply the First Coat

Use a trowel to apply the stucco mixture. You much ensure that this is done is ideal weather conditions as too much sun and wind will cause the stucco to dry very quickly. This will then affect the first layer's overall performance when applying the second layers. You will need to leave it for about 3-4 days to be cured, but during this time period continue to spray it with water so that it does not dry out.

Step 5: Apply The Second Coat

Once you have applied the first coat of stucco an you are sure that it has cured then the next step is applying the second coat. This can be done my preparing a new coat following the directions that were outlined in the fist coat. Do not be tempted to reuse stucco as this is not wise.

Step 6: Texture

The texture that you want after applying stucco siding will depend on the trowel movements that you have made. You will use the trowel on the stucco to arrive at the texture you want by experimenting with different hand movements.

Step 7: Cure

Stucco will require 36 to 48 hours to cure. You should wait about a month and a half or two months to let the top coat of the stucco sure. After this you are free to paint.