The term "stucco" is used to describe a type of exterior cladding in the form of plaster that is applied as a two- or three-part coating directly onto masonry, or applied over wood or metal lath to a wood frame structure. Stucco is a material made of an aggregate, a binder, and water. Stucco is valued as a siding material for its attractiveness and durability and is a relatively low-maintenance exterior finish.

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Within the last thirty years, the homebuilding industry has widely adopted the use of Exterior Insulating Finish Systems (EIFS), commonly referred to as “synthetic stucco.” Improper installation of these system can result in significant damages to residential structural framing from chronic moisture intrusion.

Upon request, 360 Home Inspection Services, LLC can provide a preliminary visual inspection of both traditional and synthetic stucco wall systems. During this visual inspection we are looking for visual cues about how the system is performing and how it was installed. We will document any cracking, staining, and key installation details to help you get a better understanding of the home. Once the preliminary inspection is performed, it may be determined that an invasive testing procedure known as moisture probing is required. This will require drilling small holes, roughly the diameter of a pencil, to insert a moisture meter to test the moisture content of the substrate behind the stucco, or the wooden part of the home. 360 Home Inspection Services, LLC will need written permission from the current property owner to perform any invasive testing. 

 

Our goal is to educate our clients and identify significant defects that could be costly to repair. We encourage our clients to be present for the inspection so that we can answer any questions and address any concerns that they may have.