Many house owners sooner or later face the problem of synthetic stucco replacement that is usually the issue of functionality and aesthetic looks. At the same time there are a number of disadvantages that facilitate the replacement process. For example, while moisture can get behind just about any exterior surface on a home, the plastic nature of synthetic stucco coatings tends to trap moisture thus leading to mold growth and wood rot. And when the process is overlooked it might present an enormous hidden risk after some time and as a result you can face an explosive repair bill.

Perhaps the best thing in this situation is to be proactive. Basically, synthetic stucco replacement starts with full inspection and removal of damaged sheathing and framing that was covered by synthetic stucco. Besides, removing the synthetic stucco coatings also gives the access to the windows and the doors which is an excellent opportunity to check whether these items were properly installed and equipped with the best flashings.

In case you made up your mind to use brick, you might need to employ a structural engineer so that he can create a detailed plan illustrating what structural elements are necessary to support the brick load. Usually artificial stone and stucco can be easily attached to the wood-framed structure. Besides, give serious consideration to the creation of a hidden drainage plane behind the brick, stone and stucco coatings. Once the felt paper has been properly attached to the home, you can fasten vertical strips by pieces of treated plywood to the outside of the home. The stucco and artificial stone may be applied to stiff galvanized mesh that is fastened to these strips. Thus water that gets behind these materials now has a large and direct pathway down to the ground. This system also allows air to readily circulate behind the materials.

Finally, consider tinting the stucco you apply. If you chose a color that compliments the stone and brick, exterior painting may be limited to a relatively small area. Professional stucco contractor will do test panels because the stucco color often changes as it cures. Besides, the stucco contractor can help you to define the type of the material to replace synthetic stucco with by providing samples giving recommendations and informing you on advantages and disadvantages of the selected coating.