How Long Does Stucco Over Wood Last?
Stucco is a long-lasting siding option, and when applied properly with a backer board or a metal lath atop wood, stucco can last anywhere from 50-70 years, with an average of 60 years. In order to ensure your stucco applied over wood will stand the test of time, it is imperative that proper maintenance is done on the stucco. This includes repainting and caulking the stucco every 7-10 years; patching and repairing stucco cracks, and speaking with a professional about any larger cracks that could indicate an issue with the stucco; cleaning the stucco annually with a power washer or other cleaning tools, and cutting back any vegetation that is growing on or near your stucco. With proper care and maintenance, stucco can have a long lifetime that will provide your home with a unique look and feel.
How Much Does It Cost to Stucco Over Wood Siding?
The cost of applying stucco to wood siding varies depending on the size of your home. Typically, for a 3,000 square foot home, the cost will typically range anywhere from $9,000 to $18,000. For a 5,000 square foot home, the cost will typically range anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000. These costs vary depending on the contractor you work with and the time of year the stucco is installed. Speaking with a Phoenix stucco contractor to get an estimate for your home will help you have a better idea of the costs associated with applying stucco over your wooden siding.
How to Stucco Over Wood
Applying stucco over wood can be a labor-intensive process, and it does involve quite a few steps and materials. In order to begin the process, you will first need to acquire a cement fiber board, vents and covers, waterproof membrane, a metal lath, a construction stapler, a hammer, galvanized nails, a mason’s trowel, a garden hose and the three types of stucco necessary for the installation.
The first step will be preparing the surface by cleaning the wood siding and covering the surface with enough galvanized fasteners and stucco lath. Then, you must cover the surface with building paper. When applying the building paper, you must have enough to create at least a 6 inch overlap from one sheet of paper to another sheet of paper. The paper must extend at least 16 inches from around the corners of each wall, and the paper must extend at least 4 inches over the paper below it. The building paper can be secured using staples. The final step to prepare the wood for stucco application is to apply the lath or netting to the wall. The lath should be applied to the wall using nails or staples that will penetrate the studs by at least 1 inch.
After preparing the wall, you can begin applying the stucco in layers over the lath. You can use a premixed stucco solution from the hardware store and mix it per the instructions to form the proper thickness of mixture. Using a trowel, apply a 1/4 inch coat of the stucco onto the metal lath, then wait an hour before using a rake to scratch lines in the surface of the semi-firm first “scratch” layer. Allow this layer to dry for 24 hours before applying the final ¼ inch layer of stucco. You can experiment with texture on the final layer, varying the angles and pressure of the trowel during application, until you find a texture that suits the design you like. While the stucco final layer dries, be sure to mist the stucco every 2-3 hours to slow the drying process and lengthen the lifetime of the stucco.
Can You Take Stucco Off Wood?
Stucco can be removed from wood, however wood siding can be easily scratched and, as such, there are a few methods to try so you can avoid scratching underneath the surface of your stucco. The hot water method involves spraying warm to hot water over the surface of your stucco and allowing it to soak for a few hours and soften before beginning to remove the stucco. Once the stucco is softened, begin to scrape it away using a dull knife. If you choose the hot water method to remove your stucco, make sure to avoid saturating the wood underneath the stucco, which could contribute to rot.
If the hot water method does not work when removing stucco, using fine sandpaper or a sander can be used to sand away the stucco. This can be a lengthy process to remove stucco from your home, especially if you have chosen to DIY the removal of your stucco. To use sandpaper, the surface must be completely dry, and you must avoid sanding the wood underneath the stucco or risk damaging the wood. The removal of stucco from wood can be difficult, but it is possible. It can be made easier by working with a professional.
If you’re interested in upping the curb appeal of your wood home with the addition of stucco siding, the team at Titan Stucco can help. Contact our team of seasoned stucco professionals to learn more about installation of stucco over your wooden siding, including pricing, timing and removal.
