Barrel Mixer or Mortar Mixer
Before diving into the mixing process, it’s crucial to choose the right equipment. For larger stucco projects, such as the application of stucco to the exterior of a larger home or building, a barrel mixer or a mortar mixer are good options. Both a barrel mixer and a mortar mixer are heavier pieces of machinery that can be pricey for a DIY project and can also be dangerous to operate if you have not been trained in operating them properly.
A barrel mixer works to spin the materials in the machine in order to mix them thoroughly at a proper ratio, and a moral mixer will use a paddle to mix all of the materials together in a barrel attached to the machine. A barrel mixer operates similarly to a kitchen blender, while a mortar mixer operates similarly to a kitchen stand mixer. A mortar mixer is generally more effective for mixing stucco, but it can have issues if there are larger rock pieces that are added to the stucco mix.
Bucket, Paddle, and Drill
For smaller stucco jobs, a bucket, a mixing paddle, and a power drill can be a practical alternative. You will need a five-gallon bucket and a drill with a drill paddle attachment, and you can use this method to mix the stucco, similar to the way a mortar mixer might work but on a smaller scale. This method provides greater control and is ideal for repairs or smaller applications, such as a bathroom project or stucco grouting.
Wheelbarrow and Hoe
A middle ground between the heavy machinery of a mortar mixer and the small-scale mixing operation of a bucket, paddle, and drill will be the wheelbarrow and hoe method. You can use a wheelbarrow as the bucket and a hoe or a shovel as the mixing paddle, placing the stucco materials in your wheelbarrow and mixing them thoroughly by hand using your hoe or shovel. This method works well for medium-sized jobs that will require more than 5 gallons of stucco, but it can be labor-intensive since you will be hand-mixing all of the stucco. If you choose this method, it’s important to ensure that stucco is well combined.
How to Mix Stucco in a Mixer
Before beginning any mixing of your stucco materials, it’s important to note that stucco hardens very fast. This means you should take all necessary steps to have materials prepared and tools wet to avoid sticking prior to beginning any mixing. You will also need to have the proper ratio of materials; we recommend following the three-to-one rule. For every three shovels of sand you add, you should add one shovel of stucco mix, and then you can add as much water as necessary to achieve the consistency of a thick paste.
Items Needed
Gather the following materials before beginning the mixing process:
Stucco mix (Sakrete type S mortar stucco mix is commonly used)
Water or a hose
Your mixer of choice
Masonry or construction sand
Mixing Process
You can begin the process by measuring your materials according to the instructions on your stucco mix package. Typically, you’ll use one 94-pound bag of stucco mix and add water gradually until you achieve the desired consistency. You can then load the measured stucco mix into the mixer and start blending the dry mix. Slowly add water while the mixer is running. Ensure a uniform mix by allowing the mixer to run for 3-5 minutes. Once complete, the stucco should have the creamy and workable consistency of a thick paste, similar to peanut butter. Adjust the water content as needed.
How to Mix Stucco With a Bucket and Drill
Mixing stucco with a bucket and drill will be similar to the mixing method of a heavy-duty mixer, just on a smaller scale. You can begin by gathering your materials and ensuring that your tools are wet to avoid any sticking.
Items Needed
Gather the following materials for mixing:
Stucco mix
Water
Masonry or construction sand
5-gallon bucket
Mixing paddle attachment for a power drill
Mixing Process
As with the mixer method, you can begin by measuring the stucco mix and water according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Then, add the stucco mix to the 5-gallon bucket and start mixing with the paddle attachment on a power drill. Gradually add water and continue mixing until you reach the desired consistency. Similar to the mixer method, the stucco should have a creamy texture resembling peanut butter.
How to Mix Stucco in a Wheelbarrow
Mixing your stucco in a wheelbarrow will be a bit different from mixing with a drill and paddle or a barrel or mortar mixer, as it requires a bit more manual work to ensure the materials are all properly combined.
Items Needed
Begin by gathering the following materials:
Stucco mix
Water
Construction or masonry sand
Wheelbarrow that is at least six cubic feet, as this size is less likely to top over when mixing
Hoe
Mixing Process
Similar to other mixing processes, you can begin by measuring your necessary materials according to the manufacturer’s instructions. In your wheelbarrow, combine the stucco mix, sand, and water. Use a hoe to mix the materials thoroughly. Add water gradually to achieve the desired consistency of a thick paste.
Mixing Stucco FAQs
What is the Mix Ratio for Stucco?
The mix ratio for stucco typically includes one part stucco mixed with a specific amount of water. The exact ratio can vary depending on the stucco mix you are using, so always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the correct mix ratio.
What Is the Best Mortar Mix for Stucco?
The best mortar mix for stucco is typically a Type S mortar mix. It is formulated with the right combination of cement and lime, providing the necessary workability and durability for stucco applications.
Is the stucco mix the same as cement?
Stucco mix is not the same as cement. Stucco mix is a specific blend of materials that includes cement, lime, and sand in the right proportions to create a mix suitable for stucco applications. Cement, on its own, does not have the necessary properties for stucco and should not be used as a substitute. Always use a stucco mix formulated for the job.
Mastering the art of mixing stucco is key to achieving a successful stucco finish that enhances the beauty and durability of your home or building. It can be a tricky process, and to ensure your stucco stands the test of time, it may be best to speak with a professional or work with a seasoned stucco team, especially for larger projects such as the exterior siding of your home. Contact the team at Titan Stucco today for a free stucco installation consultation.
