DEFECT: Stucco Installed To Grade
Stucco to grade can be caused by one of two things. Either the stucco was installed all the way down to ground level or the ground was raised to the stucco level. No matter the cause, big expensive repairs can ensue.
While stucco is designed to withstand the elements, it was not designed to be in constant contact with moist soil. Over time, the moisture will wick up through the stucco causing deterioration and failure of the stucco. The damage usually first manifests itself as damaged stucco at the lower few inches of the wall.
If this is a wood framed home the moisture can quickly deteriorate the internal structure of the wall and create mold issues. Repairs to the internal structure of the wall can be extremely costly so it is best to remedy this before this happens.
Another issue with stucco to grade is pest infiltration. Termites and other pests can enter through or behind the stucco from the soil and never been seen. The stucco to grade is a conduit for pests and termites into the home.
Often times, this is the result of a Do It Yourself (DIY) stucco job or a non qualified contractor installing it.
Repairs can be quite difficult, once the stucco is installed it is not an easy task to fix this. If this is a result of the soil being raised to the stucco level it might be easier to re-grade the soil to maintain proper clearance if the landscape allows.
This information was provided courtesy of Southwest Premier Home Inspection, LLC. Reproduction in any form is not permitted without consent. Copyright 2008-2010 Southwest Premier Home Inspection, LLC.
Southwest Premier Home Inspection is the Phoenix Arizona Home Inspection leader. To find out more visit our Phoenix Home Inspection website www.swpHomeInspect.com
